Firefighters responded to a structure fire Thursday evening at a vacant building in the 2200 block of Biddle Road, officials said.
Crews arriving on scene initially reported possible attic involvement, but later determined smoke had traveled into the attic space, making it visible from the eaves. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire, which originated in a large common area of the building and involved a mattress and other materials, producing heavy smoke. No injuries were reported.
Due to safety concerns inside the structure, investigators were unable to conduct a full examination of the scene. Power to the building was shut off, and information gathered at the scene indicates the fire was intentionally set, officials said.
The property has been declared an unsafe building and a public nuisance. City officials said efforts are ongoing to address unauthorized occupancy and to secure the site. Representatives associated with the property were present during the response, and officials provided recommendations for follow-up with the property owner.
Fire officials noted that unauthorized use of vacant buildings continues to pose safety risks for both first responders and the community.
