This morning, a three-alarm blaze tore through a residential building in Downtown Oakland, sending thick smoke into the air and drawing a major emergency response. The fire was reported just before 7:10 a.m. near 19th and Broadway, and crews worked through the morning to knock down the flames and secure the scene. Officials have not yet released a cause of the incident or reported any injuries.
Fire crews on the scene
The Oakland Fire Department told KTVU that the blaze was first reported just before 7:10 a.m. at a four-story residential building and that at least 60 firefighters were on scene to battle the fire. The department classified the response as a three-alarm incident, according to the station.
Where this fits with Oakland's fire picture
Oakland has faced questions about fire coverage in recent years, with temporary station closures and budget shortfalls prompting public outcry and town-hall meetings. Oaklandside reported last year that several stations were temporarily closed as the city worked to balance its budget, a backdrop that community members say heightens scrutiny of major incidents. Fire officials did not tie today's blaze to staffing or budget issues, but the size of the response underscores how many resources a multi-alarm structure fire can demand.
What residents should expect
Authorities asked people to stay away from the area while crews operate and to follow updates from local officials and traffic reports. KTVU noted that the story was developing and encouraged readers to watch for further information from officials.
