Two AFR Firefighters Fall Through Floor During Structure Fire at Homeless Crash Pad

Albuquerque –

On September 30, 2026, at approximately 6 a.m., Albuquerque Fire Rescue was dispatched to 442 Alcazar St. NE for a reported structure fire at a boarded-up, single-story, single-family residence.

Rescue 11 arrived and reported a working fire. Engine 5 stretched a hose line for fire control, while Ladder 5 was assigned to forcible entry. Rescue 11 and Medic 5 conducted a primary search, and Engine 11 established a water supply.

Engine 13 stretched a hose line to the main floor, while Engine 5 advanced a line into the basement. Engine 5 located the seat of the fire in the basement.

As Engine 13 firefighters worked to position their hose line, the floor collapsed, causing two firefighters to fall into the basement. Engine 13 declared a MAYDAY.

“This was a close call. The crews performed exactly as they should have and are trained to do, which is why we aren’t reporting a line of duty death or possibly two this morning. The fact that there were no injuries is a testament to the skills and awareness of the crews operating on this scene,” said Lt. Jason Fejer of AFR.

Engine 5, which was operating in the basement, located the two firefighters and assisted them out through a basement access point in the side yard.

Both firefighters were evaluated at the scene and did not require transportation to a hospital.

The fire was brought under control approximately 58 minutes after firefighters arrived. The primary search was completed with no occupants located.

The structure sustained severe damage and is considered a total loss. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. No occupants were displaced because the residence was already boarded up.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The residence was boarded up and showed signs indicating possible squatter occupancy.