Major Fire in Downtown Spokane

Firefighters are expected to work throughout the day to contain a fire that broke out in what’s commonly known as the Joel building on the east side of Post Street, just south of the railroad viaduct. Firefighters are approaching the fire from a defensive position.

“We are working extremely hard to contain the fire and limit its damage,” says Spokane Fire Department Assistant Chief Brian Schaeffer. “We will remain on scene until the area is safe.”

Both Mayor Mary Verner and Council President Joe Shogan have been to the fire to assess the damage and check on the health and safety of fire crews.

Post and Wall streets are closed between First and Second avenues, and the northernmost travel lane of Second is closed from Wall to nearly Lincoln. Citizens are asked to stay away from the area to allow fire crews to do their work. The smoke is toxic, and citizens should avoid breathing in the smoke, especially if they have respiratory problems.

On scene are:
17 Spokane Fire Department companies.
58 SFD firefighters.
A Major Incident Support Team (MIST) to assist with logistics and support.

In addition, surrounding fire districts have provided firefighters, through mutual aid agreements, to assist on scene and to staff some City neighborhood fire stations.