The Salado Volunteer Fire Department has lost one of its most vital response vehicles.

Salado VFD's heavy rescue vehicle caught fire while responding to an accident Wednesday evening. The flames destroyed the motor and warped much of the metal on the vehicle, rendering it inoperable.

The department estimates that it could cost over $200,000 to replace the vehicle, which was used to carry vital rescue equipment. Without it, response to accidents, especially along I-35, could prove more difficult. The department is currently using a pickup truck to haul that equipment.

We reached out to the Salado VFD Thursday evening, and a representative said the department plans to start a GoFundMe page later Thursday night or Friday to accept donations.

For more information, contact the Salado Volunteer Fire Department at ( 254) 947-8961 or SaladoFireDept@yahoo.com.

More From KTEM-AM