FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact Battalion Chief Jeff Sargis (760) 705-7122

On May 1, 2022 at approximately 01:43 a.m., Escondido Fire Department Engine 137 was returning to Fire Station #7 from another incident and noticed smoke in the area of the 2400 block of Auto Park Way. The crew diligently investigated the area finding and reporting a large commercial building with heavy smoke coming from the roofline at 2415 Auto Park Way. Escondido Police and Fire Communication Center dispatched a full commercial structure fire response. The Captain on Engine 137 reported that the building was charged with cold smoke down to the floor. Due to the potential for the fire to spread and the size of the building, a second alarm was also requested but soon cancelled as the incident stabilized.

Aggressive action by firefighters located, contained and controlled a large lithium ion battery pack that was on fire in approximately 20 minutes minimizing structural damage and any spread to adjacent occupancies. The smoldering fire produced thick toxic smoke which activated the smoke alarm but did not cause the sprinkler system to discharge. Firefighters removed the battery pack from the building and cleared the smoke from the building ensuring that the fire was completely extinguished and no other damage occurred.

In all 9 Fire Engines, 2 Truck Companies, 2 Rescue Ambulances and 3 Battalion Chiefs responded to the fire.

Escondido Police units provided road closures and assistance was provided by San Marcos, , Rancho Santa Fe, and Vista Fire Departments.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.