Missoula Current

The Missoula Fire Department responded to a multiple vehicle fire early Friday morning, one that fire officials say appears suspicious.

Dax Fraser, assistant fire marshal, said fire crews received a call at 12:16 a.m. Friday to reports of smoke and flames coming from several vehicles at the Hilton Garden Inn, located at 3700 N. Reserve Street.

Responding crews could see a visible smoke column and, upon arrival, found heavy flames showing from several vehicles located in the hotel's parking lot.

“Crews were able to quickly knock down the bulk of the fire, but fire located under the vehicles was difficult to extinguish due to flammable liquids,” Fraser said, adding that the incident was declared under control at approximately a 1 a.m.

Fraser placed the property damage at more than $150,000. No injuries were reported at the scene.

Fraser said the cause of this fire was under investigation, but is being considered as a suspected arson fire. Any questions or information should be directed to the Missoula Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 552-6210, or Assistant Chief Jeff Brandt at 544-2800.

Callers may also contact Five Valleys Crime Stoppers with any tips for law enforcement.

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