At 5:58 AM Wilmington Firefighters on the C platoon were alerted for a smoke investigation in the area of Lancaster Avenue and N. Union Street.
First arriving fire department unit Engine 6 found heavy smoke showing from the two-story vacant commercial structure with apartments on the second level. Engine 6 officer Lieutenant Timothy Taggart, requested a full alarm assignment be dispatched to combat the fire.
Incident Commander, Battalion Chief Michael Schaal arrived moments later immediately requesting additional resources. Once the additional companies arrived crews stretched fire hose lines and began extinguishing the fire on the first and second floors. Crews searched all levels of the structure, finding no one inside. New Castle County Volunteer Fire companies were requested to provide coverage for the city due to all city units being committed to the incident.
The fire is currently being investigated by the Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office. There were no reported firefighter injuries. The scene was placed under control at 6:45 AM by the Incident Commander, Battalion Chief Michael Schaal.
Approximately 35 fire and EMS personnel responded to the fire. The following units responded: Engine 6, Engine 1, Engine 5, Squad 4, Skyboom 2, Ladder 2, Ladder 1, Battalion-1, Battalion-2, Battalion- 12, F-1, D-2, D-3, FM-13, St. Francis EMS, New Castle County Medics, Wilmington Licenses & Inspections, and Delmarva Power.
Breaking Report
Wilmington – Just before 6:00 this morning firefighters with the Wilmington Fire Department responded to 1926 Lancaster Avenue for a smoke investigation.
Upon arrival, crews reported smoke showing from the Tower Cleaners.
Crews entering the building reported a fire in the basement.
Crews are currently on scene trying to bring the fire under control.
Update: Command has placed the fire under control. Fire Marshals are en route.
Developing