Alpine Police Department Facebook photo

Brewster County Sheriff’s Office Facebook photo

ALPINE — A paving truck burst into flames last Thursday afternoon sending a black cloud of smoke billowing above Highway 90 and FM 1703 in Alpine.

Area officials said they were called to the scene around 5:30 p.m. to find the truck engulfed in flames. The Big Bend Sentinel sent a reporter to the scene, but police would not let them anywhere near the fire.

The Alpine Police Department posted additional details on the fire on Facebook: “The driver later stated he had pulled over to the side of the road due to a high heat alarm alerting him. When exiting the truck, he discovered flames emitting from the rear which quickly spread. Fire was extinguished but not before the vehicle was a complete loss. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Please avoid the area if possible while cleanup efforts continue.”

Alpine Police Department Facebook photo