SOUTH THOMASTON — A vehicle being prepared to be taken to the junk yard caught fire late Sunday morning behind a home on Elm Street (Route 73), between Bartlett and Buttermilk lanes.

The call came in at 10:40 a.m. as a vehicle fire within 50-feet of the residence. The first South Thomaston firefighters on scene, under the command of Deputy Chief David Elwell, found the car fully involved.

Elwell reported the homeowner said as part of the vehicle's prep for the junk yard, the battery had been removed so it appeared the fire was caused by spontaneous combustion.

The vehicle was located between two buildings and the homeowner tried to put the fire out before the fire department arrived. There were no injuries.

Two engines reponded to extinguish the blaze.

Editorial Director Holly S. Edwards can be reached by email at hollyedwards@penbaypilot.com or by calling 207-706-6655.