Thick smoke rolled across a University Place neighborhood Tuesday as fire crews hit a duplex fire on the 7400 block of 20th Street West, with multiple engines crowding the street and neighbors told to steer clear while responders worked.
Emergency personnel asked people in the area to stay away as firefighters attacked the flames. Officials had not released any information yet on possible injuries, the cause of the blaze, or whether anyone from the duplex was displaced.
Official Update From West Pierce
According to West Pierce Fire & Rescue, "Crews are currently on scene of a duplex fire at the 7400 block of 20th St. W. in University Place. Please avoid the area." The post was the first official word on the incident, and West Pierce had not shared any additional details on injuries or damage at the time of publication.
Context: Recent Fires In University Place
Late last month, a multi-unit blaze along Bridgeport Way West displaced several families and was later investigated as a suspected arson after accelerants were found, according to Fox 13 Seattle. That earlier fire triggered a second alarm and drew in the Red Cross, a reminder of how quickly apartment and multi-unit fires can ripple through an entire building.
What Residents Should Expect
The City of University Place contracts with West Pierce for fire and emergency services, and the city’s official site outlines the district’s responsibilities in local emergencies, per the city’s website. Drivers should plan for partial closures on 20th Street West near the 7400 block while crews remain on scene, and nearby residents may see lingering smoke and detours until the area is fully cleared.
This story will be updated as agencies release more information on injuries, damage and road reopenings. Anyone with firsthand information or video can contact the Pierce County Sheriff's Office through its public contact page.
