Fire Destroys Warehouse in East Central Neighborhood

Firefighters responded to a warehouse fire at 101 North Madelia Street in Spokane at 8:18 p. m. yesterday after receiving multiple reports of black smoke. Engine 7 arrived within three minutes and confirmed heavy, dark smoke pouring from the two-story commercial building. Crews conducted a quick interior assessment but determined that the fire was too advanced for an offensive attack, prompting a defensive strategy instead.

Significant hazards included nearby fuel tanks and the risk of structural collapse, which led to the incident escalating to a third alarm. It took about two hours to bring the fire under control, but the warehouse was ultimately a total loss. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among firefighters or the public. Investigators will look into the cause of the fire, although a partial building collapse will hinder an interior examination. Fire crews will remain on scene to extinguish hot spots and ensure the fire does not rekindle, with smoke expected in the neighborhood during this time.