Massive Fire Rips Through Building’s Ducting from Basement to Fourth Floor
Blaze Spreads Through Extraction System
A fierce fire tore through the building’s ducting system, spreading rapidly from the basement all the way up to the fourth floor. The blaze broke out underneath a busy restaurant, with offices and flats directly above.
No Injuries Reported Amidst Chaos
Thankfully, no injuries have been reported despite the ferocity of the flames. Station Commander Chris Mattingley, on the scene, confirmed: “The fire spread through the ducting from the basement of the building up to the fourth floor.”
Firefighters Battle Intense Heat for Hours
Crews faced relentless challenges as they tackled the fire in sweltering conditions. The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers were slammed with 18 calls about the incident.
- The fire was first reported at 6:33pm.
- It was brought under control by 9:15pm, but crews remained on site to dampen down hotspots.
- 12 fire engines and around 80 firefighters from Dowgate, Dockhead, Shadwell, and nearby stations joined the firefight.
Fire Origin Under Investigation
Authorities are now probing the cause of the fire as the scene is secured and fire crews continue their work.
