Electric-powered scooter catches fire inside garbage truck cargo hold - CBS Detroit

Updated on: June 27, 2025 / 4:24 PM EDT / CBS Detroit

An electric-powered scooter caught fire in the garbage truck after it was left out for the trash, the Troy (Michigan) Police Department reported.

Thursday's incident required the response of the Troy Fire Department and the help of the Oakland County Hazmat Team to safely remove and dispose of the battery pack.

Police said the fire began when the garbage truck compacted the load. That step damaged the scooter's lithium-ion battery, causing it to overheat and catch fire.

"Never throw lithium-ion batteries (like those in scooters, e-bikes, tools, or phones) in the trash. They can cause fires and are dangerous when crushed or damaged," the police report said. "Please recycle batteries properly at a local hazardous waste facility."

Paula Wethington is a digital producer at CBS Detroit. She previously held digital content roles at NEWSnet, Gannett/USA Today network and The Monroe News in Michigan. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina.

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