Fresno Fire Department

Just after 12:30 AM this morning, Fresno firefighters responded to the 2800 block of North Blackstone Avenue after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a commercial building on fire.

Engine 5 arrived to find smoke and flames coming through the roof of a vacant, boarded up restaurant. Firefighters forced entry into the building and began an aggressive interior fire attack. Due to the fire’s progression and concerns over the structural integrity of the building, which had already been compromised during a previous fire, crews were briefly evacuated while conditions were reassessed.

In April 2024, firefighters responded to another fire at the same location that was later determined to be arson.

Firefighters were ultimately able to bring the fire under control, though the building sustained additional damage. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Last night just before 6:30 PM, Fresno firefighters responded to the 900 block of North Fresno Street after receiving reports of a commercial building on fire. Engine 5 arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from a vacant boarded-up building with fire through the roof that was threatening neighboring structures.

Firefighters initially made entry in an attempt to attack the fire from the interior. However, due to rapidly deteriorating conditions, concerns over the building’s structural integrity, and the dangers associated with the old reinforced brick masonry construction, crews were forced to transition to a defensive operation and fight the fire from the exterior.

During the incident, a portion of the building collapsed onto a firefighter, narrowly avoiding a disaster. Thankfully, the firefighter sustained only minor injuries, was treated on scene, and returned to assist crews battling the fire.

As operations continued, a nearby utility pole became damaged by the flames, raising concerns that electrical lines could fall and create additional hazards for firefighters working in the area.

Despite the challenges, firefighters were able to successfully protect the neighboring exposure buildings, preventing the fire from spreading further. Unfortunately, the building of origin is considered a total loss.

Due to the extent of the damage and concerns over hidden fire within the debris, five additional engine companies rotated throughout the night, conducting fire watch operations to ensure there were no flare-ups or rekindles.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Around 2:15 PM this afternoon, Fresno Firefighters responded to the area of San Benito and O Street after receiving multiple reports of a grass fire. Crews arrived to find dry vegetation burning along the southbound side of Highway 41 and immediately began working to contain the flames.

Fueled by today’s gusty winds, the fire quickly spread across the freeway to the northbound side and extended into a row of nearby warehouses. Firefighters worked aggressively to protect the commercial buildings and were able to prevent major damage, with only minor damage reported to two warehouses.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Firefighters remained on scene extinguishing hot spots and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

With warmer temperatures arriving, pools are becoming the place to be. ☀️🏊 Remember to keep safety your top priority this summer:

• Watch children at all times around water
• Designate a distraction-free Water Watcher
• Install pool gates and make sure they are locked
• Have life jackets nearby
• Avoid running near pools
• Learn CPR and be prepared for emergencies

Stay cool, stay alert, and stay safe this summer.