On Sunday afternoon at 4:22 pm the Liberal Fire Department responded to a report of a car fire in the parking lot of the Calvary Mennonite Church. First arriving units at 4:27 pm found a single vehicle fully involved. The fire was declared under control at 4:31 pm and crews remained on scene checking for hot spots and ensuring the fire was completely extinguished. The car was being operated when it began smoking and the driver was able to park and get out of the car without injury. There was a report of an explosion in the car during the fire which is believed to be from a spare tire located in the back of the vehicle. The cause of the fire is undetermined, but is accidental in nature. The vehicle is a total loss.
Once it was determined the fire was completely out crews cleared the scene at 5:00. Liberal Police Department and Seward County EMS also assisted on scene. No injuries reported for this incident. The Fire Department responded with 13 personnel and 4 fire units.