SPOKANE, Wash. — A firefighter was trapped inside US Bank on Spokane’s South Hill Monday afternoon after a large fire caused the roof to collapse.
The Spokane Fire Department (SFD) confirmed they responded to a call from US Bank employees about the smell of smoke inside the building. Crews responded around 11:53 a.m. on April 29 and immediately observed heavy black smoke and flames.
Due to the severity of the situation, a second alarm was called at 12:12 p.m., allowing more resources to assist. SFD said shortly after the second call, the roof collapsed with eight firefighters inside the building just moments after, immediately prompting a “mayday” call.
One firefighter was temporarily trapped but quickly rescued by other emergency crews. SFD confirmed that no firefighters or civilians were injured in this fire.
Fire crews will remain on the scene throughout the night to ensure no hotspots and continue to evaluate the damage. SFD confirmed the building is anticipated to be a total loss.
Surrounding businesses were evacuated, and 29th Avenue remains closed. You are asked to avoid the area.
The cause of this fire remains under investigation.
