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Two Alarm Fire Engulfs Sam's Auto Repair In Pulaski Township

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PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A two alarm fire has broken out and engulfed Sam's Auto Repair shop in New Brighton.

The explosions and flames were so intense they could be heard and seen for miles.

"I came out of my garage and the fire was already up over the trees within a couple of seconds," said Matt Hall, a resident of the neighborhood.

Six engines and twelve tanker trucks responded to the fire.

"Our station is two blocks away and when we got tone, it was already fully involved," said Pulaski Township Fire Department Chief Alan Hickey. "When the first unit called on scene that it was fully involved, through the roof, I called county and had them strike a second box.

Neighbors say the auto repair business has been a staple in the community for 30 years, but the fire caused it to be gone in no time. Three cars inside were destroyed. Sam and his wife, the owners of the business, were well known by everyone.

"After he got out of school he always worked for his dad," said Gary Mohrbacher, a neighbor. "When his dad retired, he opened his own place up."

Matt Hall said growing up Sam would work on his cars and quads.

Reports are that Sam was inside the garage when the fire started and his wife was in their home next door. Neither were harmed.

When asked if he will rebuild, Sam said they "absolutely will."

The Fire Marshall will be here tomorrow to investigate.

The auto repair shop is located in the 3400 block of 47th Street. The call came in at 6:13pm.

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