A blaze at a parking facility near Jacksonville International Airport has impacted approximately 50 automobiles, with vehicle owners like Matt Santangelo expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of information provided.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Over two weeks have passed since a fire engulfed part of a parking structure at Jacksonville International Airport, resulting in significant damage to many vehicles and causing a portion of the facility to collapse. Yet, for some car owners, the quest for clarity and updates is ongoing.
Matt Santangelo’s Escalade remains trapped on the fourth level of the garage. Although it wasn’t directly scorched, the vehicle is now leaning forward, surrounded by smoke residue.
“I could see my truck on the news, and I thought—oh my gosh, there it is,” said Santangelo.
The fire started with one BMW but quickly spread. About 50 vehicles were damaged, and engineers are still working to reinforce the garage before any cars can be safely removed.
According to the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, the fire is believed to have started around noon on May 16 in a car on the second floor of the hourly parking garage. Officials said the fire eventually spread to about 50 other vehicles and caused a partial collapse of two floors.
“The smoke all around it—that thick black smoke—is just as bad as flood damage,” said Santangelo.
Santangelo says he signed up for airport updates, but those stopped after the first week. Now, he’s checking on his vehicle himself—frustrated by the lack of information.
“I feel bad for others. What if that’s their only transportation? People are strapped right now. Not everyone has a credit card to rent a car—it’s sad,” said Santangelo.
The Jacksonville Aviation Authority says safety is the top concern, and says they will contact car owners once it’s safe to remove vehicles. They’re urging those affected to call their hotline for updates.
