A blazing garage in Angmering collapsed minutes after firemen snatched a cylinder of dangerous gas from the flames.
Six fire crews were called to the blaze in Dappers Lane at 6.15am today.
Five vehicles being repaired were wrecked.
Assistant Divisional Officer Mark Osborne, said: "The roof had partially collapsed and gas cylinders were believed to be involved.
"We discovered one contained argon for welding. We managed to remove it and cool it down before the roof and the walls collapsed."
An investigation has been launched into the cause of the fire.
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