Fire rescue teams in Albuquerque responded to a large residential fire near Gold and High Street in the downtown area just west of I-25.
According to the neighbors the house was abandoned, and the building was a two-story structure leading the second story to collapse around 6:30 AM during the blaze. About 45 personnel worked tirelessly to put out the flames of the abandoned home with over 16 Albuquerque Fire Rescue Units responding to the call. Within 34 minutes the crew managed to put out the flames. Defensive fire operations were used to try and take control of the house fire due to dangerous fire conditions as well as the situation spreading to the house next door. A video from KOAT 7 displays huge flames that can be seen from an aerial view of the scene coming from the house with fire crews actively attempting to put it out.
The house was left destroyed and unsalvageable, but many other homes within the community were untouched due to the large fire crew that responded to the devastating call. In another video shown by KOB 4 shows the home dressed in smoke and with its second floor completely missing, as the fire crew attempt to understand what exactly led to the fire.
“Many lives are impacted by Albuquerque residential fires. Fire crews work endlessly to protect the rest of the community,”said Brian Colón of Singleton Schreiber. “Abandoned house fires are not a surprising occurrence and have taken place more frequently throughout the last few years at the cost and safety of so many individuals.”
Singleton Schreiber fire accident attorneys can be reached at 505-605-2076 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.
Drastic Rise of Albuquerque House Fires
Abandoned homes are usually at the forefront of many community’s minds as they tackle the risks that come with no one maintaining or looking after the forgotten home. Many incidents occur that put other homeowners at risk such as squatters taking over, faulty electrical wiring issues leading to fires, as well as trespassers entering the structure to name a few. When landlords or officials do become aware of the dangers of leaving homes within large residential areas unattended for so long, it’s almost always too late. The community takes a huge hit as their homes, safety of their families, and overall lives take a huge upheaval.
Many disasters are found lurking within abandoned houses such as the following:
- Insecure ceilings, walls, and floors: Basic structural components are left untreated depending on the age and condition of the building. The abandoned structure quickly succumbs to its environment and deteriorates at a rapid speed, leading to unstable elements.
- Construction hazards: Building materials, glass, Construction debris, trash and other assorted items can be found throughout the abandoned site if the building deteriorated, providing additional hazards.
- Exposed wiring and electrical fire damage: Serious hazards in abandoned buildings are exposed wiring as the risk of fire or electrical shock is significant.
- Crimes and drugs: Abandoned homes often become the residency to drug pens as no one is actively monitoring the residence for activity. Leaving communities to deal with unsafe activity and exposure around their loved ones.
- Homelessness and/or squatters: The longer the structure sits abandoned, the more prone it becomes to being inhabited by squatters and/or homeless individuals seeking refuge. Their seeking shelter amongst these structures is not often done without wreaking havoc within their wake. Homes are often left graffitied, unsalvageable, or damaged beyond repair if deterioration hadn’t got to it first.
Dangerous New Mexico Structure Fires
According to reports the rise of abandoned homes throughout New Mexico has taken a significant increase over the last few years and was largely affected by the Covid 19 pandemic. Property managers, landlords, and officials let the properties decline and take little to interest in passing necessary inspections. With no one financially able to purchase or rent homes in the current market, the homes will continue to sit uninhabited.
“New Mexicans deserve to feel safe within their homes and communities, and we are grateful to first responders and firefighters who serve us well,” Mr. Colón added. “My greatest sympathies go out to those affected by this tragic incident, and I hope those in charge of maintaining the structure are held responsible.”
Those who have been injured in New Mexico fire accidents, can contact Singleton Schreiber at 505-605-2076 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.
