Justin de Ruyter, PIO
Friday, July 19, 2024 at 8:13 a.m.
This morning at 4:30, the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to a commercial fire at 4501 South Regal Street. Engine 11 arrived six minutes later, reporting moderate smoke coming from the attic of a mini-mart and car wash.
Truck 14 assisted with forcible entry and an interior search for victims. Firefighters from Engine 9 and Engine 11, with help from Truck 1, initiated a fire attack and ensured the attic space was ventilated. Forty minutes later, the fire was under control, with no injuries to civilians or firefighters. Avista Utilities was called to secure gas and electrical service to the building.
Most of the fire was in wall voids between an exterior brick veneer and heavy-gauge metal sheathing on the interior. Due to the veneer wall's structural instability, firefighters marked a work exclusion zone.
A fire investigator from the Special Investigations Unit determined the fire was caused by arson and is investigating its connection to at least two other recent arson fires at Ace Hardware on the same block. Security cameras captured two subjects lighting a fire on the exterior wall around 2:30 a.m.
Investigators are seeking additional security camera footage or pictures from businesses or residents in the area, especially of anyone walking around within one hour before or after 2:30 a.m. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 509-625-7120 to speak to an investigator.
Damage estimates are $150,000, with value saved estimated at over $1,000,000. Fire investigators anticipate releasing security footage of the suspects early next week. Media requests for information can be reached at 509-625-7110.
