On Dec. 2, at 3:30 a.m., City of Rocky Mount, N.C. fire units responded to a working commercial structure fire at Cherry’s Used Tires at 319 S. Washington St.
Crews found heavy flames coming from the roof in the rear of the structure.
An apartment complex and a large warehouse were also being threatened by the flames. Command personnel requested an additional alarm assignment.
This resulted in a total response of four engine companies, two ladder companies, two squads, and two command officers.
Crews initiated an aggressive defensive attack to protect exposures and contain the fire to the rear of the building. Several residents from the apartments were evacuated and moved to another area in the complex.
Eventually, firefighters were able to conduct an interior attack and prevent the fire from spreading into the office area and shop in the front of the building.
The adjacent warehouse and apartments suffered minimal damage. The fire was brought under control within two hours.
There were no injuries.
The CRM Electrical Troubleshooter responded to the scene and terminated power to structure. The CRM Gas Department also responded to shut off gas to the building.
Gas crews had to repair a leaking gas line near the building.
The RMFD Fire Marshal’s Office and RM Police are investigating.
The fire appears to be suspicious and is currently under investigation.
