A weeknight in Kearny Mesa turned chaotic yesterday when a fast-moving fire tore through a second-floor unit at a local apartment complex, sending thick smoke over the neighborhood and pushing startled residents out onto the street. Fire crews quickly knocked down the flames, and officials later confirmed that no one was hurt.
San Diego Fire-Rescue crews were dispatched around 8:17 PM to a two-and-a-half-story building on Kearny Mesa Road, where they arrived to find heavy smoke and flames shooting an estimated 20 to 30 feet from second-floor windows, according to FOX5 San Diego. Firefighters worked to get the blaze under control and ventilate the building as residents watched from outside.
Battalion Chief Chris Babler told FOX5 San Diego that four units were damaged: the ground floor sustained smoke and water damage, and one second-floor apartment was described as a total loss. About 12 residents were displaced. Babler urged neighbors to double-check their fire detectors this spring. Fire officials are coordinating with the American Red Cross to help those forced out while investigators work to determine what sparked the blaze.
Building And Response Details
The property at 5400 Kearny Mesa Road is listed in San Diego Housing Commission records as Kearny Vista Apartments, a converted hotel that now serves as permanent supportive housing, according to San Diego Housing Commission documents. City records and housing providers note that on-site support services are available at the complex, a factor that can shape how displaced residents are rehoused and assisted after an emergency like this one…