METHUEN — Chief Joseph Solomon reports that the Methuen Police Department is at the scene, along with the Methuen Fire Department, after a flash fire was allegedly ignited by a man in a vehicle.
First responders arrived shortly after 4 p.m. outside 3 Hitchingpost Lane for a report of an explosion. Upon arrival, police officers learned that the occupant of a vehicle parked on the property had fled the area shortly after a large fireball erupted from the vehicle.
The vehicle did not catch fire, and there is no danger to the community or surrounding homes.
Chief Solomon felt it was prudent to request the assistance of a regional Hazardous Materials team and a state Bomb Squad out of an abundance of caution. A perimeter has been set, and police and fire officials are awaiting the arrival of the specialized units.
The man who fled the area was found a short time later in Haverhill and has been taken to a hospital with burn injuries. The severity of his injuries are not known at this time.
This is a breaking news update. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
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