Two-alarm Fire Destroys Two Buildings in Sacramento

April 04--Two commercial buildings in downtown Sacramento were destroyed in a two-alarm fire that threatened surrounding buildings in the 1400 block of E Street early Thursday evening.

Assistant Chief Niko King said the buildings at 1414 and 1410 E St. were occupied by Sacramento Theatrical Lighting Annex. He said flames were coming through the roof when the first crew arrived and a second alarm was called.

Firefighters pulled back from the building when the roof collapsed shortly after they arrived.

Efforts focused on preventing the fire from spreading to the Lost Treasure Thrift Shop, which shares a wall, and to a Victorian house to the west that has been converted to apartments, King said.

The fire was right up against the Victorian house, which sustained minor fire damage to the attic and roof, but King said firefighters kept the flames in check. The thrift shop was not damaged, and King said it should be able to open for business today.

Nearby homes were evacuated, along with the thrift shop and two other businesses.

King said the owner of the buildings said he had some old restored cars inside. King said the buildings and contents were a total loss.

About 85 firefighters fought the blaze, and King said crews were expected to remain at the site through the night. Fire investigators also were on scene. Although it appeared the fire started toward the rear of the structures, King said the fire was so advanced by the time the first crew arrived that it was difficult to pinpoint the location.

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