ALSTEAD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A massive fire erupted in Alstead on Sunday afternoon, leveling an auto shop and drawing emergency crews from across the region. Firefighters battled the intense flames for hours after an explosion reportedly ignited the blaze at a High Street property.

Officials confirmed that multiple fire departments, including some from Vermont, were dispatched to the scene as the fire quickly escalated to a three-alarm response. The incident began with an explosion, which fire officials believe may have been triggered by a propane tank. The resulting fire consumed a large metal and wood structure, making suppression efforts particularly difficult.

The wind added another layer of challenge for crews as they worked to contain the flames. Despite the severity of the fire, authorities reported no injuries. It remains unclear whether anyone was inside when the blaze began, though everyone present was able to evacuate safely.

Witnesses in the area recalled hearing a loud explosion at approximately 4:05 p.m., followed by several smaller blasts. The fire spread rapidly through the rear building of the property, which housed a motorcycle shop operated by a tenant. The shop was completely destroyed, and the back wall of the main Gendron-Fisher Automotive building also sustained damage.

Fire crews arriving at the scene encountered a fully engulfed structure. Their initial focus was on preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings and protecting two propane tanks near the site. Once the immediate threats were contained, firefighters shifted their attention to fully extinguishing the flames.

Authorities believe propane may have been the source of the explosion but do not suspect any foul play. As of Sunday evening, crews were still working to douse remaining hot spots.

Firefighters from Alstead, Keene, Langdon, Lempster, Sullivan, Walpole, Westmoreland, Bellows Falls, Rockingham, and Westminster, Vermont, assisted in the emergency response. By 7 p.m., Route 12A was closed between Mechanic Street and Village Road as crews continued their efforts and investigators assessed the damage.

Further updates are expected as officials continue their investigation into the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage.