Grass fire spreads to auto wrecking yard

WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla Fire Department is still investigating what caused a fire that damaged about 40 vehicles at Kelty Auto Parts and Repair on the 200 block of West Rees Avenue Saturday night.

“The fire did begin as a grass fire nearby, possibly caused by fireworks,” WWFD Public Information Officer Jennifer Scott said.

According to Scott, the vehicles were on fire when crews arrived just before 11 p.m.  It took firefighters about two hours to get the fire under control. Walla Walla County Fire District No. 4 did provide mutual aid.

“No hazardous materials concern for the fire department, the property owner is responsible to clean up the vehicles,” WWFD Chief Bob Yancey said.

Established in 1919, Kelty Auto Parts and Repair sells new and used parts, performs auto repair and auto recycling.