Driver risks life to drive tractor trailer engulfed in flames away from gas station
MIAMI - A quick-thinking tractor-trailer driver risked his life to avert what could have been a massive explosion and fire at a southwest Miami-Dade gas station.
Around 3 a.m., Ruben Eng was at a gas station on Krome Avenue at SW 200th Street filling up when he noticed smoke coming from the truck. He then saw the fire.
Looking to avoid a massive fire if it spread to the pumps, Eng drove out of the gas station as the fire spread through the truck. He said he got burned on his arm and a little on his ear but was otherwise okay. He said all of a sudden, it was engulfed in flames.
"In just 30 seconds man, the truck just completely went on fire, it was 80 percent in 30 seconds. I don't know exactly what happened. I can't remember now. In that moment, it happened really fast," said Eng.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said when they arrived the fire on the truck was sizable and it took a while to put out. The cab of the truck was destroyed.
No other injuries or damage were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.