Fire at Benoit Ford in DeRidder

DERIDDER, La. (KPLC) - The Benoit Ford car dealership engulfed in flames early Saturday morning.

The Fire Departments responded to the scene at approximately 4:53 a.m. They say there will be periods of heavy smoke covering U.S. 171.

7NEWS talked to two employees who recall being woken up to a phone call from a friend on his way to work reporting the dealership was on fire.

Their phones continued to be flooded with videos and pictures of the flames. Among the losses are a few cars, most of the offices, every set of keys that the dealership owned and a vintage 1929 model A. Most of the golf carts used were also a total loss.

“By the time I got here it was 6:15 or 6:30 and it was just nothing, nothing they could do besides keep it from spreading to the cars and to the building over there. They did a good job of getting it under control for us for sure,” employee Jason Lavergne said.

The fire burned well into the morning until about noon. Fire crews from all around DeRidder showed up to assist in mutual aid. 7NEWS is told the fire began near the service department.

The Louisiana Fire Marshal has taken over in hope to find a cause. Benoit Ford is asking for prayers and patience from the community during this tough time.

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