Seattle Fire Department responded to a three alarm fire just after midnight at 1007 South Weller Street in the International District. When firefighters arrived there were flames coming from the first floor of a three story building. The fire quickly extended to the second and third floors, and up into the attic space of the building.
The first floor of the building houses a Buddhist Temple, office and meeting space. The second and third floors house apartments. Everyone in the building at the time of the fire got out safely. Firefighters rescued one female from the second floor. Two residents went to the hospital with minor injuries – one with back pain and another with smoke inhalation. Firefighters made an aggressive attack and had the fire under control quickly. There was extensive fire damage to the first floor of the building.
More than 120 firefighters responded to the fire. Fire Investigators determined that the fire was accidental, caused by burning incense that came into contact with combustible materials inside the first floor Buddhist Temple. Damage is estimated at $400,000.
Red Cross assistance was requested to help house at least 17 people, and some residents found places to stay on their own.