Contact: Steve Goforth, asst. fire marshal, 425-754-4576
Meghan Pembroke, communications director, 425-257-8687
EVERETT – Everett Fire crews worked overnight to put out a large structure fire on the 2900 block of Broadway, across from Xfinity Arena. Crews rescued one individual from an apartment in an adjoining building to the north, and continue to monitor and put out hot spots Tuesday morning.
The fire was reported at 10:15 p.m. Monday, Sept. 25. Crews arrived at 2931 Broadway to find heavy flames on the back side of the structure, an office furniture building. The fire had also taken down power lines in the area.
“Our crews faced significant challenges because of the live power lines on the ground, but were able to use ground ladders to rescue a male from building,” said Steve Goforth, asst. fire marshal. “They then focused on putting out the fire and preventing it from spreading further.”
With the help of many nearby agencies who responded to the scene, crews were able to get the fire under control within a couple of hours. Crews from Fire District 1, Fire District 4, Fire District 7, Lake Stevens, Marysville, Lynnwood and Naval Station Everett assisted in the response.
Initial reports indicated that there might be another person trapped in the building, but crews were able to determine that all occupants were out of the building and accounted for.
The fire continues to burn in places under the collapsed structure, and crews are expected to remain on site throughout the day Tuesday to look for and put out any remaining hot spots.
Broadway is closed northbound at Pacific Avenue and southbound at California Street and traffic must detour to the east or west of Broadway. Signal timing changes have been made to help keep traffic moving.
The fire is under investigation and a cause has not yet been determined. The initial damage estimate is at least $1.5 million.
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