FARMINGTON — A pickup truck fire early Thursday morning on South Strong Road melted the hood and radiator, but the driver was not hurt.

John Majarian had just left his home on South Strong Road at about 6:50 a.m. Thursday. He was heading south toward Farmington when he turned on the defroster in his 2000 Ford pickup, Farmington police Sgt. Peter Barton said.

Little pieces of leaves and chips began to spew out of the defroster, along with sparks, Barton said. The cab began to fill with smoke, so Majarian pulled the truck to the side of the road, opened his door — and the engine compartment burst into flames, Barton said.

Majarian’s went back to his home to report the fire.

He thought mice may have gotten into the vehicle and made nests, causing the debris to spew from the defroster.

Usually, during a vehicle fire, combustible materials used in construction, such as the steering wheel and fabric, will burn, but this was the first time Barton had seen a hood melt, he said.

The vehicle was insured and was towed away by Bryan’s Auto Body of New Vineyard. Farmington Fire and Rescue put out the fire.

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