A spectacular blaze erupted Saturday morning about 4am at 838 W Grand Ave.
This is part of the area that was devastated years ago by the now famous West Town gas explosions. A large mixed occupancy structure was completely destroyed.
The fire may have originated in an attached 1 and 2 story commercial building and spread throughout the larger 4 story structure. 3 tower ladders, a snorkel and aerial pipes were used to confine the fire to the buildings of origin.
A severe exposure problem was present in the rear and access was hampered by an adjacent construction area. At least one structural collapse occured prompting a call for 521, the collapse rescue unit for standby.
This fire was a 3-11 alarm response.
For more photos visit the 5-11 Club of Chicago Website.
