Day 2: Oceanside Pier Fire Still Smouldering – NBC 7 San Diego
TL/DR –
A massive fire engulfed the end of the Oceanside Pier in San Diego, with crews battling the blaze on land and sea. The point of origin of the fire has been traced to the former site of Ruby’s Diner, which was undergoing a renovation. Fire crews managed to contain the fire, estimating that 90% of the pier remains undamaged and there were no immediate reports of injuries.
Continuing Firefight on Oceanside Pier
Firefighters tirelessly battled a huge blaze engulfing Oceanside Pier’s end into Friday. The fire began on Thursday, producing a thick plume of smoke over the coastal city.
“We’re close to controlling the fire,” said Oceanside Fire Chief David Parsons. Use of helicopters and drones provide data on the fire status, while arson investigators have not ruled out any causes.
Investigation and Damage Assessment
Parsons revealed that investigators have pinpointed the fire’s origin at the previous Ruby’s location. “A new vendor was remodeling the location for a new restaurant,” he added. The restaurant building suffered a roof collapse, but the pier itself remained largely unscathed, with 90% undamaged by the fire.
A safety zone, barring anyone within 500 yards of the Oceanside Pier, has been issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. There were no reports of damage to the suspended sewage tank under the deck or any spillage.
Fire Response and Community Impact
Around 3 p.m. Thursday, fire crews first responded to the fire at the former Ruby’s Diner site. Nearby businesses, including The Brine Box, were open when the fire started. “We saw smoke coming from under the pier. Everyone was evacuated safely,” said Jessica Waite, The Brine Box co-owner.
Firefighting boats and crews at the pier foot worked relentlessly, drawing spectators along the coast. Assistance came from various sources, including a joint-operated helicopter by Cal Fire and the San Diego Sheriff’s Department for water drops, and the new Triton firefighting vessel from San Diego Fire Rescue.
Nearby businesses, such as the Famous High Pie at the Top Gun House, had to close due to the smoke and ash carried by onshore winds.
Efforts to Contain the Fire
In a news conference, Parsons stated that firefighters were primarily focusing on controlling the still-burning deck. As of 10 p.m., crews were fighting the active fire on the restaurant and pier. A 5-foot trench was created across the pier width to prevent an eastward spread.
The Oceanside Emergency Operation Center, operating at Level 3, is coordinating at the county level and with San Diego Fire-Rescue Lifeguards and Harbor Patrol.
Historic Pier’s Future
Last year, Oceanside spent $5.5 million upgrading the pier’s pipes and electrical systems. The pier, first built in 1888, has weathered destruction twice. This is not the first building fire on this site, with incidents in 1976 and 1902.
No injuries have been reported. The city, ensuring all employees are safe, plans to rebuild. However, Parsons stated that the cause may remain undetermined for a few days.
Refresh this page for updates on this ongoing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
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