Firefighters in Contra Costa County faced a modern ordeal when they were called to extinguish an electric vehicle (EV) fire in the underground parking garage of the California Plaza building in Walnut Creek. The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire) responded to the alarm late in the afternoon to find heavy smoke billowing from the entrance, as an EV burned below ground level. According to the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, the firefighters had to navigate the complexities of EV fires in such confined spaces, prompting a second alarm request for further assistance.
The fire teams quickly set to work, employing thermal imaging cameras to locate the fire and deploying hoses to commence suppression efforts. Meanwhile, a precautionary evacuation of surrounding areas was underway over concerns that the toxic smoke might infiltrate occupied portions of the building. As ConFire battled the blaze, their Hazardous Materials Team addressed the dangers of chemicals and gases emanating from the fire, continually monitoring air quality and assessing potential hazards. In a social media post by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, it was mentioned that the vehicle in question was a plug-in hybrid, charging before the incident.
Update: vehicle fire in the parking garage at 2121 N. California is knocked down. The vehicle was a plug-in hybrid that was charging prior to the fire. Units will remain on-scene as the batteries are still off gassing. pic.twitter.com/8CtvL5ELkB
— Con Fire PIO (@ContraCostaFire) October 23, 2025
Although the visible fires were put out rather swiftly, crews remained on site for several hours to cool the EV's battery and prevent any chances of reignition. Firefighters underwent decontamination, and their gear was sent off for specialized cleaning due to the risk of hazardous material contamination. Despite the potential for significant harm, no injuries were reported, and thanks to prompt and coordinated efforts, the damage was kept to a minimum.
To safeguard residents from the lingering fumes of the fire, ConFire enacted a shelter-in-place advisory for the area enclosed by North California Boulevard, Pringle Avenue, Riviera Avenue, and Parkside Drive for two hours following the fire.
