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Gas station fire caused by fuel spilling onto hot engine, Modesto firefighters say

The motorcycle, gas pump and overhang were burned during the incident.

CERES, Calif. — A fire ignited at gas pump when fuel spilled onto the engine of a motorcycle in Ceres, officials said.

The Modesto Fire Department said the blaze was reported around 11:45 a.m. Monday at the Shell gas station along 4th Street.

Officials said the motorcyclist was fueling up when the fuel spilled and caused a fire. The motorcycle, gas pump and overhang were burned.

A spokesperson for the fire department said the motorcyclist was refueling when he removed the nozzle and fuel spilled onto the motorcycle's hot engine or exhaust. 

Captain Joseph Spani said the the motorcyclist had just come off the freeway, so his engine was still very hot when the fire started. Spani said, at this time, the fire is a rare incident and appears to have been accident.

Crews were able to get the fire under control quickly before it spread to the store or other nearby cars. 

The motorcyclist was taken to a hospital with minor injuries.

Fire officials said people should follow all the posted rules and guidelines at the fueling site, avoid overfilling or topping off fuel tanks and keep fuel away from engine and associated components.

WATCH MORE: Motorcycle catches fire at Ceres Shell gas pump

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