Massive fire destroys Washington County contracting business

A massive fire broke out late Thursday night and destroyed a contracting business in Washington County.

An aerial view from the KDKA Drone Team showed large flames and heavy damage at Maund Industries along Route 88 in California Borough.

Washington County dispatchers confirmed that the first call about the fire came in just before 10:30 p.m. Thursday. 

California Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tom Hartley said that 15 crews responded to the scene and that firefighters faced several explosion while battling the flames.

"Lots of explosions," Hartley said. "Tires, propane tanks, a little bit of everything. It kept you on your toes."

Neighbors described popping sounds coming from the business, followed by a large explosion with what they said were mushroom clouds and fireballs.

Hartley said the building is totaled and that the business lost all of its equipment.

Maund Industries describes itself as a general contractor and offers services like asphalt and concrete paving, excavating and hauling, masonry supplies and more. 

No injuries were reported It's unclear right now what initially sparked the flames. The fire marshal is expected to investigate the cause.