PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — It took dozens of firefighters to control a massive warehouse fire in Southeast Portland Friday night.
Portland Fire and Rescue said the fire was first reported around 9:30 p.m. and grew to 3 alarms within just 8 minutes. Part of the roof collapsed almost immediately, but firefighters said in hindsight that was helpful in fighting the fire because there aren’t many windows.
By 11 p.m., it was mostly knocked down but many firefighters remained at the scene pouring water from above.
The fire was at a commercial building in the 2700 block of SE Long Street. A sign on the collapsed building says “RJ Templeton,” which is a car parts warehouse, according to Google.
Officials confirmed the fire was contained to the commercial structure and did not spread to nearby residences, but there is damage to surrounding homes, properties and cars.
Loren Adams was crossing the river when he saw the fire and called 911.
“We were probably 200 feet from the fire and it was pushing us away,” Adams said. “We were too close.”
Investigators will likely need days to figure out what started the fire.
Firefighters will be at the scene overnight to watch for hotspots.
The investigation continues and anyone with any information about this blaze is asked to contact the Fire Investigations Info Line at 503.823.4636.
Watch: Large fire burning in SE Portland