PHOENIX, Ariz. — Phoenix firefighters responded to a large commercial structure fire involving a 15,000-square-foot industrial warehouse complex, where heavy flames penetrated the roof and prompted commanders to shift from an interior attack to a defensive strategy. Crews used elevated master water streams from specialized ladder trucks to prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring commercial structures and an adjacent freight distribution center.
The fire was initially dispatched at approximately 5:45 a.m. MST following automated commercial alarm activations and multiple 911 calls. Engine 4 arrived within six minutes and reported a fully involved working fire inside the commercial building. Because of the rapid fire conditions, structural characteristics and wind conditions, the incident commander requested a second-alarm response at 5:58 a.m.
The expanded response brought additional fire and emergency personnel to the scene, including hazardous-material response teams and heavy rescue units from Tempe Fire Medical Rescue. Command officers established a staging area on 24th Street to coordinate incoming apparatus, manage water supply from municipal hydrants and oversee firefighter operations in heavy smoke conditions.
According to the information provided, the response involved 18 fire engines, six ladder trucks, four battalion chief command units and two medical units, with approximately 65 emergency responders assigned to the incident. Phoenix Fire Captain Rob McDade reported that no civilian casualties or firefighter injuries had been reported.
Firefighters later transitioned into mop-up and hot-spot suppression operations after the primary surge of flames was brought under control. The fire was reported to be approximately 85% contained, while crews continued working to eliminate remaining areas of heat and fire. The cause of the fire had not been provided in the available information.
The warehouse sustained significant structural damage, including the collapse of large sections of its corrugated steel roof. City structural engineers and building safety inspectors arrived to assess the compromised structure, with interior entry considered unsafe until the damaged masonry walls could be stabilized.
The emergency response also affected traffic in the surrounding area. 24th Street was closed in both directions between East Jefferson Street and East Van Buren Street, while East Washington Street was reduced to a single westbound lane between 22nd and 26th streets. Traffic exiting Interstate 10 onto 24th Street experienced congestion and detours, while Valley Metro Rail services along Washington Street were subject to temporary restrictions and shuttle arrangements.
Smoke remained an additional concern as crews continued suppression and overhaul operations. Air-quality personnel monitored smoke dispersion and detected elevated PM2.5 particulate levels in nearby downwind areas. Residents and businesses in affected areas were advised to keep doors and windows closed, while sensitive individuals were encouraged to limit prolonged outdoor exposure until smoke conditions improve. Fire crews and officials remained at the scene as suppression, safety assessments and monitoring continued.
