Overview
- Fire crews responded to a large blaze at 4777 N. 32nd St. on Wednesday evening and the incident was raised to a five-alarm alarm, drawing about 100 firefighters who worked for hours.
- Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski said the multi-story building was vacant and had no active electricity or gas service, and officials have not confirmed anyone was inside.
- Crews fought a wind-driven fire that produced embers and heavy smoke visible across the metro area, and parts of the structure collapsed as water and heat weakened the old mill-style wood framing.
- Officials warn that the building's solid-wood mill construction creates a long-burning hazard and serious collapse risk, which will limit evidence recovery and slow the cause investigation.
- The property's owner, Holy Redeemer Ministries, said the warehouse had been slated for redevelopment into housing and other uses and expressed commitment to the neighborhood as investigators continue their probe.