Marburg, Germany  -  Flames overwhelmed a German fire engine after its motor caught fire on the way to an emergency, and a crew of teenage firemen were unable to contain the blaze, police said Monday.

All four volunteer firefighters, aged 17 to 19, were overwhelmed by choking fumes and two were taken to hospital after the incident Sunday near the central city of Marburg.

Police said a technical problem in the speeding fire-truck had caused the fire. (dpa)