Almost 30 Cars, Including Classic Mercedes SL, Destroyed in Massive Houston Auto Fire

Earlier this week, firefighters in Houston, Texas were called to the scene of an automotive massacre, when they were tasked with putting out a blaze that had involved close to 30 cars. Among them was a classic Mercedes-Benz SL-Class. Now, investigators are trying to determine exactly what happened as the vehicles' owners figure out their next steps.

The conflagration happened in the early morning hours of Monday, October 14, according to the Houston Fire Department. As soon as firefighters arrived, they immediately called for backup. Images and video from the location of the fire — an apartment complex on Yorktown Street — show an extensive blaze spread over a wide section of parking lot.

"As the investigation continues, the number of affected vehicles is closer to 30," the fire department posted on X. "Arson investigators will speak with residents, property owners, and any other witnesses as they work to determine what started this fire."

One clear photo from the aftermath shows a burned-out R107-generation Mercedes-Benz SL, and a Ford Taurus that suffered a similar fate.

As of this writing, authorities believe that a short circuit in one car led to the entire fire, according to Click 2 Houston. If there is any evidence of arson, firefighters aren't speaking about it publicly.

While it's possible that insurance will cover the majority of the cars involved here, some believe the apartment complex should pick up the tab. “I asked the manager who is going to pay for all of this and she just told me there was nothing she can do about it,” another resident who found her Ford burned out after the incident told Click 2 Houston.

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