SHAWNEE COUNTY – Authorities are investigating the cause of a warehouse fire in Topeka.
Just after 7a.m. Saturday, crews responded to a warehouse fire at 418 SE 13th Street in Topeka, acording to a media release.
First responders encountered heavy smoke and fire conditions throughout the structure. Due to the advanced fire conditions, the first-arriving companies declared the incident a defensive fire and initiated exterior fire suppression operations.
Firefighters deployed 2½-inch hose lines and utilized both a deck gun and an aerial apparatus to attack the fire. Suppression efforts were challenged by the extensive fire involvement upon arrival, as well as the collapse of portions of the roof and walls during firefighting operations.
No individuals were present when crews arrived on scene. Once the fire was brought under control, firefighters were able to enter the structure and conduct a search, confirming that no occupants were inside.
The warehouse was being used to store older vehicles and various miscellaneous items. There were no reported injuries. Smoke detectors were not found in the structure.