Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood was shrouded in dense black smoke early this morning as firefighters worked to control a three-alarm fire in a vacant warehouse believed to be used as an auto body shop. According to FOX29, the fire started around 7:30 a.m. on the 3000 block of Ruth Street, escalating quickly from reports of flames to a full-blown inferno requiring a third alarm.
The standalone structure was engulfed by large flames, forcing over 120 firefighters to battle the blaze, which was placed under control just after 9 a.m. "No one was inside at the time. No injuries have been reported," detailed by 6ABC.
As firefighters continued to suppress lingering hot spots throughout the morning, the visual bleakness of the day was accentuated by smoke still emanating from the destroyed building. The proximity of Frances E. Willard School necessitated an expedited response, which included relocating the staff to Russell Conwell Middle School and a pivot to alternative learning facilities for the students. "The fire could also impact several businesses in the area. However, no homes on either side of the warehouse were in danger of catching fire," NBC Philadelphia added.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and officials have been in talks with the building's owner to glean more information. "While the fire is under control, crews were still pouring water on the building late Wednesday morning," relayed by 6ABC.
