Fire destroys commercial building on Pacific Highway
At 3:31 AM Friday morning, an Automatic Fire Alarm (AFA) sent fire units to the 24800 block of Pacific Highway South. A Kent Police officer patrolling the area was the first to arrive and confirmed smoke and flames coming from the roof of the structure. Puget Sound Fire Engine 73 and South King County Fire and Rescue Engine 66 arrived and pulled hand lines to begin the fire attack.
It was quickly realized that about 30 percent of the roof had collapsed, so all interior fire attack was stopped and crews went into an exterior fire attack only or what is called “Defensive Mode.” At this time, Command requested a “second alarm” to provide additional support in case the fire spread to the two adjacent businesses. Fire Command then instructed two ladder companies, who were on scene, to attack the roof fire with their elevated “master streams” and, within minutes, the fire was knocked down allowing the fire crews to re-enter and extinguish the fire. With the fire knocked down, second alarm units were then sent home.
One firefighter sustained a minor ankle injury and was treated on scene by aid units.
In addition to Puget Sound Fire units, South King County Fire and Rescue, King County Medic One and the Zone Three Fire Explorers also responded to the call.
On Saturday, investigators said the fire was caused by arson, but they have not released any details to date.
[Source: Puget Sound Fire]
