AFR Battles Dual House Fires and Explosion in NE ABQ

Albuquerque –

Albuquerque Fire Rescue crews are actively engaged in suppressing a structure fire and explosion at 9422 Woodland Ave NE. AFR was dispatched to the listed location around 1:37 PM. Upon their arrival, firefighters located one homeowner outside of the residence requiring immediate medical attention. Paramedics transported the patient to the University of New Mexico Hospital for treatment.

Crews also identified a secondary working fire at 9426 Woodland Ave NE. The fire, initially contained to the garage, had extended into multiple areas of the home upon arrival.

During suppression efforts, AFR personnel located an additional occupant suffering from burn injuries. That individual was also transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital.

Reports from the scene indicate that fireworks were stored inside one of the residences. While the exact cause of the initial explosion remains unknown, fireworks inside the structure created hazardous conditions for firefighters, and one of the structures had compromised structural integrity and a partial collapse. Due to these risks, AFR transitioned to a defensive strategy for the dwelling at 9422 Woodland Ave and maintained an offensive strategy at the residence at 9426 Woodland Ave to ensure firefighter safety, contain the incident, and prevent further spread. In firefighting, an offensive strategy involves interior attacks to quickly control the fire, while a defensive strategy is used when conditions are too dangerous, focusing on exterior operations to protect firefighters and prevent the fire from spreading.

Firefighters at the location are reporting that the conditions are improving. NM Gas has shut off the gas for the homes in the area.

We will share updates as new information emerges. Our reporters are on site and will provide further details as the story develops.

UPDATE:

The Albuquerque Police Department’s Bomb Squad is currently on scene conducting a sweep for any remaining unexploded fireworks.

APD officers, Police Service Aides (PSA), and the New Mexico National Guard have Woodland Ave blocked off between Parsifal St NE and Glorieta St NE. Drivers and bystanders are advised to steer clear of the area until the scene is rendered safe and the all-clear is issued.