Albuquerque Inferno: Multi-Alarm Fire Razes East Side Business

Albuquerque Inferno: Multi-Alarm Fire Razes East Side BusinessAlbuquerque Inferno: Multi-Alarm Fire Razes East Side Business Albuquerque, NM – A raging inferno engulfed a business complex on the city’s East Side, leaving behind a trail of devastation and economic loss. The fire erupted shortly after midnight at a commercial building on San Mateo Boulevard NE. Flames spread rapidly through the complex, fueled by highly combustible materials stored inside. Multiple fire departments from across the city responded to the scene, battling the blaze for hours. The towering inferno sent thick plumes of smoke into the night sky, visible for miles around. The fire gutted the 20,000-square-foot building, destroying businesses and equipment worth millions of dollars. The Albuquerque Fire Department (AFD) declared it a multi-alarm fire, requiring all available resources to contain the blaze. “It was an incredibly challenging fire,” said AFD Chief Nicholas Salamin. “The flames were so intense that our firefighters had to take extreme precautions to avoid injury.” Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze and prevent it from spreading to neighboring businesses. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but officials do not believe it was arson. The ATF is assisting AFD in determining the origin of the blaze. The businesses affected by the fire included a dry cleaner, a restaurant, and a flooring store. The owners expressed shock and devastation over the loss of their livelihoods. “I lost everything,” said Maria Martinez, owner of the dry cleaner. “I’ve been here for over 20 years. It’s like a part of me is gone.” The fire has also dealt a significant blow to the local economy. The businesses destroyed were a source of jobs and revenue for the East Side community. “This fire is a major setback for our local businesses,” said City Councilor Pat Davis. “We will do everything we can to support the affected businesses and help them rebuild.” The Albuquerque Fire Department is continuing to monitor the site and is urging residents to avoid the area. The public is also asked to contact the AFD if they have any information about the fire.