A massive fire tore through E & L Supermercado on West Vernor Highway in Southwest Detroit today, sending thick smoke billowing over the neighborhood and triggering a major response from Detroit Fire Department crews. Firefighters remained on scene for hours to get the flames under control, and the grocery store was left with heavy damage to its interior. Officials reported no injuries, and the cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
What Happened
According to Metro Detroit News, the fire erupted at E & L Supermercado at 6000 W. Vernor Highway on Monday and quickly drew multiple engine companies to the scene. Fire crews worked to knock down the flames while investigators began looking into how the fire started. The outlet reports that no one was hurt in the incident.
Neighborhood Grocery Is a Mainstay
E & L Supermercado has long been a cornerstone of Mexicantown and Southwest Detroit, with local profiles describing it as a go-to spot for the community for decades, including a roundup of favorite budget-friendly grocery stores. Business listings put the market at 6000 W. Vernor Hwy, according to MapQuest.
Other Recent Fires in the Area
The supermarket blaze is only the latest major fire to hit the southwest side. Earlier this month, crews battled a large fire at the Detroit Salt Company that required a significant response, according to WXYZ. At that time, officials said the cause was still under investigation, highlighting the ongoing challenges for firefighters in the area.
What Comes Next
City investigators are expected to continue examining the scene at E & L Supermercado, and the store will stay closed while the extent of the damage is assessed, according to the initial reporting. Officials have not provided a timeline for when the market might reopen or when a cause for the fire could be announced. Metro Detroit News is among the outlets tracking updates as the investigation moves forward.
