Mobile Fire Rescue is investigating the cause of a fire that caused damage to at least three buildings in downtown Mobile late Thursday.
The blaze started in a vacant commercial building in the 400 block of Dauphin Street around 9:35 p.m. The entire block is full of connected buildings from Franklin Street to Hamilton Street, so the response was swift.
Mayor Sandy Stimpson told 1819 News he is thankful for well-trained, top-notch firefighters.
"We are so grateful for the fast actions of the Mobile-Fire Rescue Department, who made quick, impactful decisions that kept this intense fire from spreading to other buildings in our downtown," said Stimpson. "Our firefighters have already shown they are among the best in the country and continue to prove this daily."
When firefighters first arrived, they saw heavy smoke and fire coming from the two-story brick building. They called in other units, and the fire ended up being a three-alarm fire before the night ended.
The fire spread to two other buildings, where damage was reported on the upper floors. However, firefighters were able to eventually contain the fire. After extinguishing the flames, crews remained on the scene to monitor for hot spots. At least one truck stayed on the scene through the night.
The city is also evaluating the current state of the building to ensure public safety.
No one was hurt, and firefighters said an entire city block could have been destroyed because of the number of connected buildings.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
