The operator of an automotive shop damaged in Wednesday’s fire in Thornton that threw thick black smoke over the Denver area is seeking the community’s support.

Jason Rol, operator of Rol Race Motorsports, an auto restoration shop located in the 480 block of West 84th Avenue, told The Denver Gazette on Wednesday the vegetation fire that quickly spread through the grass field behind the shop burned about 100 of his and his customers’ vehicles.

“I’m at a loss for emotional words,” Rol said.

In an online GoFundMe fundraiser, Rol said that many of the cars and personal belongings consumed in the fire were left in his care by customers of his shop.

“Seeing the aftermath has been heartbreaking,” Rol said. “Not just for me, but for my customers, my neighbors and everyone who was affected.”

The fire, which was the second significant wildfire to spark in the Denver area in as many days, ignited in a grassy area east of Pinnacle High School before dry conditions and constant winds allowed it to quickly spread.

The blaze sent a plume of black smoke into the area that could be seen for miles around the Denver area.

Four responders and one other person were injured in the fire, though none critically. Crews had mostly contained it three hours after it was first reported.

Within 21 hours of its creation, the fundraiser had already received $3,400 in contributions from community members, over half of its $6,000 goal.

“As the shop owner, I feel a deep responsibility to do everything I can to help those who have been impacted by this tragedy,” Rol wrote on the fundraiser page. “I want to make sure that the people who trusted me are supported as they try to rebuild and recover from this loss.”

Denver Gazette Reporter Kyla Pearce contributed to this report.