Firefighters are grappling with extensive flooding in a parkade following a "major" fire in East 麻豆传媒映画on Tuesday, Aug. 6.
麻豆传媒映画Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) Acting Ass. Chief Mike Purchas told V.I.A. that several crews responded to a fire in a three-storey apartment building at 414 E. 10th Ave that began at roughly 4:30 p.m. yesterday.
Crews successfully knocked down the active flames but are managing the remaining hot spots at the site on Wednesday morning.
The building's two-storey parkade is also flooded with an estimated eight to 10 feet of water. The city will work with fire crews to pump it out of the arcade but the job could take approximately 48 hours, Purchas explained.
The 400 block of 10th Avenue, some of the adjacent alley, and part of the East 10th Avenue bike route remain closed to traffic.
"The fire investigator, technical rescue team, and incident safety officer remain on-site with several fire apparatus," he said. "People should avoid the immediate area but there are plenty of detours."
Same building had two fires in short span one year ago
On July 28, 2023, a massive third-alarm fire displaced over 70 residents in the building. Crews battled through the night and the roof partially collapsed, making it dangerous for firefighters to use the hallways.
There was extensive damage to the entire building from the fire and smoke, as well as water damage from the fire hoses that were used internally and the ladder trucks.
Less than two months later on Sept. 13, 2023, firefighters responded to a second fire in the building, which they believed was likely caused by squatters.
Purchase said no residents were occupying the building during this fire but they believe squatters may have been living in it again. The City’s Chief Building Official has ordered the building demolished due to its condition.
"This is the third fire to this building and it is in a state of decay. Demolition is imminent," he added.
Demolition work is expected to proceed as soon as possible in the coming days.
No injuries have been reported.
