Austin Firefighters Contain Blaze at Abandoned Building
AUSTIN — On Monday night, emergency crews responded swiftly to a fire at an abandoned building located at 304 E. Second Street. A total of 50 firefighters from the Austin Fire Department (AFD) took part in the operation, ensuring that no injuries were reported.
Emergency Response
The AFD received multiple calls around 8:00 PM reporting heavy smoke and flames emanating from the structure. When firefighters arrived, they encountered significant fire damage, particularly from the roof and several openings on the building’s exterior.
AFD Operations Public Information Officer Rachel Lewis, speaking during a media briefing, detailed the challenging conditions firefighters faced. She noted, “After overcoming many obstacles, like hidden access issues and secret fire spots, crews managed to contain the flames on the first floor by 8:10 PM. By 8:40 PM, we had it under control on the second floor as well.”
Search and Safety Measures
Following the initial fire suppression efforts, firefighters conducted thorough searches throughout the building to ensure no one was inside. Lewis stated, “After multiple searches, we confirmed there were no occupants on any floor, and we declared the fire ‘extinguished’ shortly after.”
To prevent reignition and ensure full safety, AFD crews remained on site to check for hot spots and monitor the condition of the building. “We will have a fire watch on the building until we consider it safe,” Lewis added. The quick response from the nearby fire station, which is just a block away, certainly aided in the timely management of the situation.
Investigation Underway
As the fire was brought under control, AFD investigators arrived on the scene to begin examining what caused the incident. Lewis indicated that determining the cause and estimating the extent of the damage will take some time. “We are actively working to figure out what started the fire and the level of destruction it has caused,” she said.
Preparedness for Future Incidents
Lewis also emphasized that the city’s firefighters are trained to tackle such challenges, especially in confined spaces like this abandoned building. “We are aware of what we refer to as ‘target hazards’ — such as abandoned structures — and we keep a close watch on those places,” she explained. The AFD conducts pre-planning walks through these buildings, even if they are empty, to understand better how to respond to a fire should it occur.
The team’s experience and preparedness were evident in their efficient handling of the fire, but the conditions posed numerous challenges, and firefighters had to adapt quickly. “This is what we’ve trained for and our downtown crews are ready to fight fires in various situations,” Lewis concluded.
As the investigation continues, officials urge the public to remain vigilant about abandoned buildings and report any suspicious activity. Witnesses to the fire can expect ongoing updates as findings emerge from the investigation and as fire crews continue their monitoring efforts.
