Firefighters said Tuesday that they have identified the “area of origin” on a four-alarm fire that ripped through an iconic lumber warehouse in Oakland’s Fruitvale neighborhood Sunday night, reducing the building to rubble in a matter of minutes.
The blaze was reported about 7:45 p.m. at Economy Lumber at 750 High St., and sent billowing black smoke that could be seen for miles.
No one was injured in the blaze, which involved more than 80 firefighters and was escalated at first to a two-alarm blaze at 8 p.m., and then four alarms as of 8:15. It was contained about 10 p.m., officials said.
Trains near the scene were halted in both directions at one point but started up again about 11:30 p.m.
The fire destroyed an iconic large wooden warehouse that the company said had served as a showroom for its door and window products as well as an office area and storage for dry lumber.
Crews were still at the scene on Monday morning, working with the property owner and a heavy equipment operation to pull the building apart. The goal was to get to hot spots that might rekindle the blaze, said Oakland Fire Department spokesperson Michael Hunt.
Economy Lumber is located near Interstate 880 in Oakland, selling lumber, windows, doors and other building supplies. The business said it is operating on a limited basis this week and plans to fully reopen June 3.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding as we get back to full swing,” the business posted on its website.
The cause is under investigation.
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