OREM — A suspected engine fire set a car ablaze in a Utah Valley University parking lot Tuesday and spread to seven other cars.
The fire was reported about 5:30 p.m. in the parking lot west of the campus library, UVU spokesman Chris Tayor said.
Orem Fire Capt. Chad Van Orman said crews coming from a nearby call had the blaze out in a matter of minutes, but not before it spread to nearby cars. Six cars were completely torched, while at least two others sustained body and heat damage from the flames.
Black smoke billowed above the campus, and flames shot out from the cars, drawing student onlookers from all over campus, Van Orman said.
"There were a lot of spectators," he said. "All the students were there. I think everyone came out of class and watched."
Once the flames were out, crews opened up the cars and extinguished hot spots, Van Orman said. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it doesn't appear suspicious, he said.
No injuries were reported in the fire.
— McKenzie Romero