4-Alarmer Hits Former New Orleans School

June 19, 2011
NEW ORLEANS -- The New Orleans Fire Department said it battled a four-alarm fire at a former school early Saturday afternoon. Crews were called to 3801 Monroe Street at about 11:30 a.m. The building, currently owned by First Line Schools, was home to New Orleans Charter Middle School before Hurricane Katrina.

NEW ORLEANS --

The New Orleans Fire Department said it battled a four-alarm fire at a former school early Saturday afternoon.

Crews were called to 3801 Monroe Street at about 11:30 a.m. The building, currently owned by First Line Schools, was home to New Orleans Charter Middle School before Hurricane Katrina.

The NOFD said 29 companies worked to put out the fire and kept it from spreading to nearby buildings. The City of Love Full Gospel Church is less than 10 feet away from the building, which had no working utilities.

Fire Superintendent Charles Parent praised the work of crews, who were battling the fire in 90-degree heat.

"Our guys did a great job of keeping the fire from extending to the church, especially considering its size and proximity," he said.

The first firefighters at the scene said they saw some children running away from the building. They asked anyone who saw the children or who know they are to call the New Orleans Fire Department at 504-658-4750.

The cause of the fire was under investigation late Saturday afternoon.

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