Date/Time: 2/4/22, 10:13PM
Location: 200 block of “F” Street, City of Needles
Incident: Commercial Structural Fire
Summary: Last night San Bernardino County Fire crews were dispatched to a reported commercial structure fire in the area of 3rd and “F” Street in Downtown Needles.
ME32 arrived on-scene to find smoke and fire showing from the attic and roofline of a large commercial occupancy. Crews initially initiated an offensive attack, working to locate the fire and perform a search for any potential victims. Additional assistance from our Arizona cooperators was requested to help with the large fire. As the fire continued to grow firefighters switched to a defensive fire attack, utilizing large volumes of water to suppress the fire and protect exposures. During the firefight structural conditions deteriorated and multiples collapses occurred.
Building collapse and structural integrity issues complicated the overhaul and investigation portion of the incident. Due to safety concerns and multiple collapses a #SBCoFD heavy equipment team was requested to assist. Crews utilized a County Fire excavator to remove portions of the building for total extinguishment. Firefighter remained on-scene for more than eight hours working the incident. The fire’s cause and origin is under investigation #SBCoFD Fire Investigators. The building, vacant at the fire of fire sustained heavy damages. The scene was ultimately turned over to the City of Needles Building & Safety.
San Bernardino County Fire responded with an Engine, a Patrol, a Battalion Chief, a Fire Investigator, and a heavy equipment team. Multiple #Arizona cooperators assisted including; Mojave Valley, Fort Mojave, Bullhead City Fire & Fort Mojave Mesa. Mojave Valley’s volunteer Rehab unit also responded, assisting firefighters for multiple hours. Thanks to our cooperators for their assistance.
The City of Needles is located on the Colorado River on the eastern edge of San Bernardino County. Firefighters from California, Arizona and Nevada commonly provide multi-state cooperation which is uncommon for the fire service.
