New Footage Captures Ferrari Quebec Fireball That Sparked $20.8M Lawsuit
A Ferrari dealership tried to start a 360 Modena with parts of its fuel system missing, and the consequences were catastrophic. Newly released surveillance footage from Ferrari Quebec has brought fresh and deeply disturbing clarity to an incident that, frankly, should never have been buried in the first place. The footage does not show a minor under-bonnet flare-up. It shows a full, rapid engulfment of the car, with flames spilling outward across the showroom floor and threatening neighbouring vehicles.
- Richard Papazian suffered second and third degree burns across more than 56 percent of his body after a Ferrari 360 Modena ignited at a Quebec dealership in August 2024.
- The lawsuit, seeking approximately £15.8 million, alleges gross negligence after a salesperson allegedly attempted to start the car with fuel system components removed.
- Newly surfaced surveillance footage shows the fire rapidly engulfing the 360 and spreading to neighbouring showroom cars.
On 7th August 2024, Richard Papazian visited Ferrari Quebec with every intention of browsing one of the world’s most celebrated marques. What followed was anything but a showroom experience. According to the lawsuit, a salesperson attempted to start a Ferrari 360 Modena without apparently knowing that components from its fuel system had already been removed. Raw fuel caught, ignited, and Papazian was caught in the middle of it. He sustained second and third degree burns across more than 56 percent of his body, spent four weeks in a medically induced coma, and subsequently underwent multiple surgeries, endured failed skin grafts, and suffered kidney complications serious enough to require dialysis. The physical damage, by any measure, is severe and ongoing.
The legal action names Ferrari Quebec, Ferrari North America, and Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters as defendants, with Papazian seeking approximately £15.8 million in damages. The claim alleges gross negligence, recklessness, and wilful misconduct. What makes this case particularly troubling is not just the severity of the injuries but the apparent absence of any meaningful public acknowledgement at the time. The lawsuit suggests dealership employees were effectively discouraged from speaking out, and there are claims that a police media statement was prepared following the incident but never actually released. For an event of this magnitude, that silence is remarkable.
The newly surfaced footage is likely to become significant evidence as the case progresses. It shows, in unambiguous terms, just how quickly the situation escalated and how far the fire spread within the showroom itself. Papazian has also spoken about the broader personal toll, noting that he can no longer enjoy the Formula 1 weekend in Montreal, an event he once cherished. That detail says something
Image credit: Carscoops