On Tuesday morning, a video of an ICE van engulfed in flames in Philadelphia sparked widespread speculation on social media, with many attributing the incident to left-wing extremists. However, a deeper investigation into the facts reveals a different story.
The claim circulating online suggested that the fire was deliberately set by members of the extreme left. However, this assertion has been debunked. The Philadelphia Fire Department, along with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), confirmed that the cause of the blaze remains unknown but that foul play is not a concern.
Rachel Cunningham, a spokesperson for the Philadelphia Fire Department, reported, “After speaking with the driver of the vehicle, who fortunately escaped without injury, we determined that the fire was accidental.” She further added that while details regarding the precise cause of the incident are not available, investigators do not suspect any malicious intent.
The Fire Department received an emergency call regarding the fire at approximately 8:38 a.m. in the Center City area of Philadelphia. One fire engine was dispatched to the scene, effectively extinguishing the flames. As a precautionary measure due to the nature of the vehicle, which is owned by the government, the fire marshal was also alerted.
Tanya Roman, an ICE spokesperson, indicated that the van had experienced “mechanical issues” prior to the fire outbreak. She confirmed, “The Philadelphia Fire Department managed to put out the fire promptly. Thanks to their swift action and the safety of the vehicle’s occupants, no injuries were reported, and while the cause of the fire is still undetermined, we do not suspect any foul play.”
In summary, the assumptions made on social media regarding the incident’s cause have been found to be incorrect, as the evidence points towards an accidental fire rather than a deliberate act of sabotage.