A fire at a metal parts storing and distribution building in Southeast Portland went from one alarm to a three-alarm fire Friday night as the building burned. The fire damaged nearby homes and cars, but no injuries were reported and no one was displaced from homes.
“The fire burned so hot it pretty much melted the building,” said Lt. Rich Chatman, a spokesman for Portland Fire & Rescue.
The building at Southeast Long Street and Southeast 28th Avenue did not have sprinkler or fire alarm systems, Chatman said. He said this meant the fire wasn’t reported until flames were visible to nearby residents.
More than 30 firefighters responded to the scene. When fire crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were coming through the roof, according to a news release from Fire & Rescue.
The crews had to deal with the building partially collapsing and water supply issues while also protecting nearby homes, according to the release.
The fire was put out at 10:20 p.m. Friday, Chatman said. He said crews were still sifting through debris Saturday morning.
The 16,000-square-foot warehouse was a total loss of a little less than $1 million Chatman said. It’s unclear exactly how much damage was done to nearby homes.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated, Chatman said. He said anyone who lives in the area and has information about the fire should call 503-823-INFO.
-- Peter Talbot
503-221-5772; @petejtalbot
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