New Bedford fire inspectors and city Police are investigating a suspicious car fire early Saturday outside 345 Purchase Street.

District Chief James Fortin tells WBSM News, a witness told responding firefighters he heard a bang around 2am then saw a man running from the area.

A nearby car was engulfed in flames when fire crews arrived. Chief Fortin says firefighters prevented the flames from damaging nearby buildings, but the car was a total loss.

The car has been towed to a secure area for further investigation. Fortin declined to reveal the owner of the car or the make of the vehicle.

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