Dramatic Ring Doorbell camera footage captured Anaya moving the lithium battery-powered wheelchair onto her driveway as it began to whistle, then erupting in a huge fireball. An enormous white stream of sparks preceded the blinding white fireball that consumed and destroyed the wheelchair. According to Daily Mail - News, Alexandra Anaya described shouting "Fire! Fire!" during the incident.
Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety reported that Anaya had been charging the wheelchair with a non-manufacturer charger shortly before the explosion, which can overload or overheat a battery. Thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries—an uncontrollable temperature increase leading to explosion and toxic gas release—is suspected in this case. Warning signs of thermal runaway include battery swelling, hissing or clicking sounds, and a burning smell. According to Daily Mail - News, Alexandra Anaya described receiving a warning about "imminent danger" to move the device to a safe area like cement.
Fire! Fire!
Thermal runaway can be caused by manufacturing defects, overcharging, or physical damage such as punctures or dents. The exact cause in this specific case remains unknown, as does the brand or model of the wheelchair involved. It is unclear if anyone was injured or if property damage extended beyond the wheelchair. Anaya's quick action in heeding the suspicious sounds saved her house and family from catastrophe, according to Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety.
It said 'imminent danger, put it on cement or somewhere where other things won't catch on fire.'