Large garage in Richland woods burns down

A portion of Route 8 remained closed as of 8 p.m as firefighters from multiple communities tend to a fire at a large garage in Richland.

Allegheny County dispatchers said calls for the fire along the 6000 block of Cunningham Road came in at 4:13 pm.

Route 8 between Glasgow and Heckert roads remained closed as of 8 p.m. with first responders still on scene. No injuries were immediately reported.

The fire was in a large, packed garage in the woods near the intersection of Cunningham Road and William Flinn Highway.

The smoke, at its heaviest, could be seen for miles.

Firefighters had their hoses along the highway and used smaller trucks to help get water to the garage.

Utility terrain vehicles were also used to transport firefighters and equipment into the woods.

Those dispatched included firefighters from Richland, North Hampton, Brackenridge, West Deer, Wexford/Pine Township.

Middlesex police were directing traffic. Northern Regional police were also on scene.

Salvation Army Disaster Services providing water and food and refreshments for first responders.

It is unclear what started the fire. Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating.