My buddy's 5-series went up in a very similar fashion. It turned out to he his blower motor that started the fire.

That newscaster is clueless.

__________________
1992 300D 2.5T
1980 Euro 300D (sadly, sold)
1998 Jetta TDI, 132K "Rudy"
1974 Triumph TR6
1999 Saab 9-5 wagon (wife's)