LYONS, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say employees have escaped a massive fire at a longtime tractor salvage business in northeast Nebraska.

The fire at Northeast Tractor Salvage in Lyons was reported about 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Lyons Fire Chief Kyle Simonsen said the rear portion of the shop was engulfed in flames when firetrucks pulled up.

Seven more fire departments were called in to help battle what Simonsen said was the biggest local fire he could recall. Firefighters brought the blaze under control in about three hours, but hot spots flared up Wednesday night and had to be doused.

The fire cause is being investigated.