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The fire erupted early on Tuesday morning, May 9 just after midnight, when firefighters in Mount Vernon were alerted of a structural fire at 24 Mount Vernon Ave., according to Director of Communications Timothy Allen.
Within four minutes, firefighters were at the scene and saw that all of the building's occupants had evacuated before their arrival. Emergency services were then immediately dispatched to the scene to contain the fire and make sure that nearby residents were safe.
As the blaze quickly spread through the building, which houses Magna Dry Carpet Cleaners and the Burke Enterprises flooring store, a second alarm was called, and firefighters from Pelham, Eastchester, New Rochelle, White Plains, and Yonkers arrived to help out with the effort.
After several hours, the fire was declared under control just before 5:20 a.m.
Luckily, no civilians or firefighters were hurt in the fire. However, the property suffered "significant structural damage," and will have to be demolished, Allen said.
He added that firefighters are still putting out hotspots and that the cause of the fire is still under investigation by authorities.
As the investigation continues, residents are urged to avoid the area. The city's police department has issued warnings to avoid the following roadways:
- The entirety of Mount Vernon Avenue;
- The entirety of Oak Street eastbound;
- The 14th Avenue bridge between West 1st Street and New Haven Railroad Avenue;
- West 1st Street between Vista Place and South 11th Avenue;
- West Lincoln Avenue both directions between Oak Street and West 1st Street.
The Red Cross is now assisting the nine families that were displaced by the blaze.
Updates on the investigation into the fire and the future demolition are expected to be released as they become available.
This is a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.
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