Firefighters battled a massive blaze overnight at a large multi-dwelling structure on the corner of North Rutland and Olive Street in the City of Watertown. Flames tore through the upper floors and roof of the aging wood-frame residence, sending thick plumes of smoke into the night sky as crews worked to contain the inferno.
The fire, which began around 09:31 P.M. Tuesday night, quickly consumed the structure’s top level and attic space. Firefighters could be seen operating an aerial ladder truck, directing heavy streams of water onto the roof while crews on the ground attempted to gain control from multiple entry points. At least one firefighter was observed cutting into the roofline to vent the structure.
The structure, a large two-and-a-half to three-story multi-family dwelling with weathered white siding, was fully involved as flames erupted through multiple windows and tore across the roofline. Intense heat and heavy smoke poured into the night sky while firefighters battled the blaze from an aerial platform, directing streams of water onto the upper floors. Several ground ladders were staged against the building, and crews were seen cutting into the roof in an effort to vent the structure as the fire continued to spread across its gabled roof and into the attic spaces.
Watertown City Fire responded, assisted by Fort Drum Fire, North Pole, Town of Watertown, & Black River departments responding mutual aide.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any occupants or firefighters were injured in the blaze. Officials say the cause of the fire remains under investigation, and fire investigators are expected to examine the scene once conditions are safe for entry. Additional details, including whether anyone was inside the structure at the time of the fire, are still pending.
