2-Alarm Fire Engulfs Commercial Building in Alief Area

A 2-alarm fire erupted in a vacant commercial building at 12601 Bellaire Blvd. in the Alief area on November 27, 2023, at 10:20 a.m. Firefighters swiftly responded within seven minutes of the alarm to find heavy smoke billowing from the large structure.

No injuries have been reported at this time. The property’s current status and any potential lives saved are not available. However, an estimated $2,500,000 in damages has been incurred.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Firefighters initiated an offensive attack upon arrival, quickly requesting additional units as the situation escalated. A defensive strategy was later adopted when a wall collapsed during the operation, leading to a second-alarm activation. Responding firefighters were supported by Rehab units, and Houston Police Department assisted with traffic control.

Decontamination measures were implemented for responders, with Hazardous Materials Teams monitoring air quality and runoff, detecting no hazards. The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality also responded to the incident.

Following the fire’s containment and extinguishment, a thorough search of the building was conducted once deemed safe. The commercial structure suffered major damage, including a wall and roof collapse. The property management, present on-site, arranged for the building’s securement in anticipation of a planned demolition. Security personnel will be stationed at the site until demolition to prevent unauthorized access.

HFD Arson investigators have been called in to determine the fire’s cause and origin. Over 100 personnel, including crews from multiple fire stations and specialized units, responded to the incident.