Construction excavator destroyed by early morning fire

A construction excavator (digger) was consumed by fire early this morning.  Firefighters were called to 3329 Ellis Boulevard NW at 4:17 a.m. this morning when neighbors reported hearing an explosion and seeing the excavator on fire.

Firefighters arrived on scene and were able to make a fast fire attack, confining the fire to the excavator.  There was a 53 feet long construction trailer and other construction equipment in the immediate vicinity that did not appear damaged by fire or heat.

The property is owned by Stoney Point Heights, LLC.  The land is being developed for a 180-unit apartment complex through a Community Block Development Grant.  A street is currently being paved from Ellis Boulevard to the construction site, however building construction had not yet begun.

The excavator and construction trailer are owned by Schrader Excavating and Grading Company of Walford.  The company's owner, Shane Schrader, arrived on scene and assisted firefighters with shutting off a fuel line to the excavator.  The digger destroyed was a Caterpillar 345 Excavator.

There were no injuries reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

No further information is available at this time.

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