The Amarillo Fire Department responded to a reported commercial structure fire at 4014 South Washington Street Saturday evening at 9:27. Upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke conditions from the eaves and rear corner of the vacant single-story convenience store.
While advancing inside under high heat and zero visibility, firefighters became disoriented and a Mayday was declared for three lost firefighters. The Rapid Intervention Team was immediately deployed and successfully located and escorted all personnel to safety. No firefighter or civilian injuries were reported.
Firefighters utilized exterior handlines, ladder operations, and aerial streams to bring the fire under control. Suppression efforts were prolonged as partial roof collapse limited safe access. Crews remained on scene overnight to ensure hotspots were fully extinguished…