Yesterday afternoon, fire broke out at Jimmy's Tire Shop (1215 K Street, NE). The blaze quickly escalated from a two-alarm to three-alarm fire, with over 100 firefighters and FEMS staff on the scene. Councilmember Wells reported from the scene that the blaze was going to smolder for several hours, and likely into the day on Tuesday. Several employees were in the building when the fire started, but all escaped without injury.

Neighbors could see thick black smoke on the skyline, and several residents called our office to complain about the smell of the burning rubber. Tommy spoke with fire and environmental officials on the scene, and while the air carries a strong smell, they report that the overall air quality is not dangerous at this time. They warned however that anyone with respiratory illnesses should avoid the immediate area and they will continue to closely monitor air quality.

Tommy also spoke with Water and Sewer Authority officials on the scene and they reported that the water used to fight the blaze will enter the dual sewer system, rather than empty directly into the Anacostia River. That means that the water will travel to the Blue Plains facility where it will be treated before entering the water stream again.

Emergency officials report that as of Tuesday morning, several roads will remain closed. Below is the report:

Update on  fire at 1215 K St. NE. FEMS activity will last into the afternoon.  Road Closures:  Florida Ave. b/t West Virginia & H; H b/t 11th & 13th; 12th b/t H & K; Florida b/t West Virginia & Trinidad.  DDOT on scene w/ message boards.

(Photo credit: Inked, Frozen Tropics)