AFD Quickly Stops Apartment Fire

AFD units were dispatched to an apartment fire at 3:05am this morning at 12201 Lomas Blvd NE. All occupants of the 12 unit 2-story complex were evacuated safely and uninjured.

Fire was under control within 20 min and was contained to one apartment. The fire apartment has extensive fire and smoke damage. Our skillfull firefighters prevented further fire and smoke damage to the remaining units..

The fire was caused by lit candles left unattended.

 

Community Risk Message:

 

Candle Fire Safety- Never place a burning candle near anything that can quickly ignite, such as curtains, Christmas trees, paper, etc.

• Always keep candles away from children and pets as they could get burned if touched.
• Never place candles on combustible surfaces such as wood porches or near dry grass or leaves.
• Keep candles away from other decorations.
• Be sure candles have sturdy/stable bases and are placed where they can not be bumped or brushed against.
• Always monitor candles when burning, never leave the room or go to bed without fully extinguishing the flame.

Business Storage Fire

AFD was dispatched at 5:00pm to a storage fire at 306 Menual NE. When units arrived, they found heavy smoke and flame coming from two units.

The fire was quickly extinguished within 15 min. Heavy smoke and fire damage to both units. No injuries were reported.

The fire cause and origin is under investigation.

Eastbound lanes on Menual from Broadway to Broadbent is blocked off.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Tar Pot Fire

AFD quickly responded to 3005 2nd St. NW to find a tar pot behind the building that ignited and spread to nearby tires which created a tremendous amount of smoke.

After Engine 4 quickly extinguished the fire, AFD found minor damage to the outside of the building. No injuries were reported.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Downey House Fire

AFD responded within minutes to the 6000 Block of Downey St. NE to a residential structure fire. All four occupants self-evacuated prior to our arrival. One woman was treated with minor smoke inhalation on scene by AFD rescue 13. 

The small fire in the attic was extinguished within 15 min. AFD contained the fire to the attic and prevented further damage to the home.

The cause of the fire was due to an electrical malfunction.

The occupants will be displaced and will stay with relatives.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

High Street House Fire

AFD was dispatched at 10:45pm last night to a single residential structure fire at the 700 block of High St. SE. Upon arrival, Engine 2 crew found heavy smoke and flame coming from the roof of the small home. The occupant safely evacuated prior to our arrival. Crews on scene stopped the fire quickly with no injuries reported. Moderate fire and smoke damage throughout the home and fire was caused by a woodstove malfunction.

 

 

 

Multi-Vehicle Accident

AFD responded to various accidents along I-25 southbound to Lomas this morning at 6:30am. Three people were transported with critical injuries. Thirteen AFD units responded.

Twenty people were shuttled from the accident scenes by Albuquerque Fire Department units and brought to fire station 4.

Station 4 crews went above and beyond to make sure the stranded people were kept warm and safe until their relatives picked them up.

Thank you to Dunkin Donuts on 4th/Montano, they donated coffee and donuts
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Thanksgiving Fire Safety

The Albuquerque Fire Department is committed to making every holiday season safe and joyous for the citizens of Albuquerque. We want everyone to recognize the importance of fire safety. It is critically important to be highly alert to the fire dangers that exist during the holiday season and throughout the year. In November of 2009, Albuquerque Fire Department responded to 143 fires which caused over $953,000 in damage. We have listed fire safety tips below that can not only prevent fires but may also save your life.

Cooking Tips

Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the U.S. When cooking, remember to keep an eye on the range.

• Never leave the cooking area unattended
• If you have to leave the stove, microwave or other cooking appliance for any reason turn the appliance off.
• Turn handles to the center of the stove to prevent spills and to prevent children grabbing hot pans.
• Have a lid handy to smother a pan fire 
• Use approved pot holders, not aprons or towels
• Clean appliances regularly. Watch for grease overflows that can start fires.
• Don't place towels, napkins or other paper products around the stove surface
• Don't wear loose clothing

Most Importantly... Be Prepared for a Fire! One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to have a working smoke alarm that alerts you of a fire. A smoke alarm greatly reduces your chances of dying in a fire.

•Make and practice a home fire escape plan and set a meeting place outside.

•Make sure everyone in your family knows at least two escape routes from their bedrooms.

• Call 911 after leaving your home to report a fire emergency.

 

For additional fire safety tips, go to cabq.gov/fire.

 

Draxton House Fire

AFD responded to 3000 block Draxton SW this morning at 7:00am to a residential structure fire. On arrival, units noticed heavy smoke and flame coming from the house.

Occupants noticed fire and smoke coming from a wall heater, evacuated and called 911.

Fire was extinguished within 40 min.  Heavy fire and smoke damage in living room, ceiling and roof above the living room.

No injuries were reported. Red Cross is assisting the family of five with housing and essential items.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Chimney Fire

A driver was passing by the home on the 1900 block of Indian School NW and alerted the occupants of flame and excess smoke coming from the chimney and called 911.

AFD quickly arrived and found light smoke in the home and smoke coming from the chimney. AFD contained the fire to the chimney and prevented further fire and smoke damage.

No injuries were reported.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

2nd St. Trailer Fire

AFD units were dispatched to 3800 Block of 2nd St NW this morning and found a pillar of smoke extending above the double wide trailer. Units entered the smoke filled trailer, quickly extinguished the fire and contained the fire to the fireplace area. Moderate fire and smoke damage to the area of origin.

No injuries were reported.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Vassar House Fire

Units were dispatched at 3:33am this morning to the 1400 Block of Vassar SE. Engine 3 arrived and found heavy smoke and flame being expelled from the pitched roof. An Offensive attack was initiated and the fire was knocked down within 10 min. The quick actions of firefighter's prevented further fire damage.

50% of the home suffered heavy fire damage and smoke damage throughout.

The occupant wasn't home at the time. No injuries were reported. The fire is currently under investigation.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD News: Patriot Flag Makes Stop in Albuquerque

 

 

 

 

For Immediate Release:                                                                                                                                                                            

 

 

November 1, 2010                                                                                                                                                                    

 

The Albuquerque Fire Department will be flying the 30X58 ft Patriot Flag tomorrow, November 2nd at the Fire Academy located at 11500 Sunset Gardens SW. The flag will be flown by one of our aerial ladders from 9:30am-12:30pm on the Drill Field just south of the Academy.  The flag started its year long journey in San Diego on September 10, 2010 and is being shipped weekly for an entire year to be flown by different Fire and Police Departments across the country to honor the heroes that lost their lives on 9/11/01. The grassroot effort began with an idea from Mitch Mendler, a California Firefighter/Paramedic and American Legion Veteran.

 

"We are proud to be a part of this event to honor the fallen heroes that paid the ultimate sacrifice on that fateful morning. The emergency responders woke up that morning, kissed their kids and spouses goodbye and went to work like any other day not knowing what awaited them. We will never forget the sacrifice they made for our country in the service of their fellow man." AFD Chief James Breen.

 

For media interviews and footage, contact Melissa Romero at 505-934-1021.    

###

Porch Fire

Units arrived on the 1600 Block of Hogle NE to find a small rear porch fire. Minimal damage to a corner of the porch. Fire fighters quickly extinguished the fire. No occupants in the home at the time of the fire and no injuries reported.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Trailer Fire

Units arrived on scene to find a small fire in a trailer in the backyard of a home on the 400 Block of Arno SE. They quickly extinguished the fire. No occupants at home at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported.

A minor gas leak caused the fire.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD Prevented House Fire Extension

Units responded to the 1200 Block of Georgia NE and discovered a small fire in the crawl space. Due to AFD's quick response time and exceptional fire fighting tactics, damage was minimal.

No injuries and the occupants will not be displaced. Updates were being made to the utilities in the crawl space prior the fire.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Structure Fire on Pearl

AFD was dispatched to 1205 Pearl Rd SW at 1:04pm. Upon arrival, E-14 units found smoke and flame in the attic space surrounding the fire place.

Units aggressively fought the fire and prevented extension. The fire was extinguished within 20 min and contained to the attic space surrounding the fire place.  The fire was caused by heat from the fireplace that caused structure members to heat-up.

A mother and two kids were in the home and discovered smoke, self-evacuated and called 911. The family will be getting housing assistance for the next couple of days.

To view winter safety tips, go to cabq.gov/fire and click on Safety Information.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD News: Update on Topke Place Fire

 

From Fire Chief James Breen:

 

At 10:22pm, AFD received a 911 call for a well involved apartment building fire at 6000 Topke Pl NE.

 

The fire originated in a first floor apartment of a 2 story, 8 unit apartment building.  The fire apartment was occupied by a mother and four children. 

 

Prior to the arrival of AFD, the mother was able to evacuate and rescue three of her children and attempted to enter the apartment to find the last child but by this time extreme fire conditions prevented re-entry.

 

Within 4 minutes of the 911 call, AFD Engine 15 and Rescue 15 arrived on scene and reported heavy flames and smoke rolling out of the 1^st and 2^nd story windows and doors, indicating that the 1^st story apartment was fully involved in fire and that fire had rapidly spread to the 2^nd story apartments.

 

Firefighters entered the fire apartment to extinguish the fire and to search for the missing infant but were forced out by intense heat and heavy smoke.  In a valiant effort, Paramedics from Rescue 15 made entry through a window to save the infant but were forced out by a collapsing roof and ceiling.

 

At this time, advanced fire conditions and an unstable structure forced the incident commander to launch a defensive attack.  The fire was declared under control at 10:50pm.  At this time firefighters re-entered the structure and located the 1 year old infant in a rear bedroom. Advanced fire conditions and toxic fire gases in the form of smoke strongly suggest that infant’s life was lost prior to the arrival of firefighters.

 

Four of the eight apartments were completely destroyed by the fire.  The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental, as a child was found to be playing with fire.

 

The members of the Albuquerque Fire Department take every fire loss personally and collectively feel the pain of this tragic loss of life. 

 

The threat of fire is ever present in our daily lives and the AFD wants members of our community to know that the best defense against fire is in the prevention of fires.  Fire does not discriminate; it is a threat to all of us. 

 

 

Given this loss, the AFD feels it’s prudent to highlight the measures that have proven to make the greatest impact in preventing fires and saving lives when fire is present.

 

1. Everyone should ensure they have a properly installed, operational smoke detector in their home to provide early warning to occupants to get out.  Properly installed, operational smoke detectors reduce the chance of dying in a fire by nearly half. 

 

2. We should keep matches and cigarette lighters out of the reach of children.

 

3. When fire is discovered, immediately evacuate your family from the building and call 911 once safely outside. The time frames for occupant survival are counted in seconds, and not in minutes. 

 

4. Families should practice evacuation drills in residential homes.  This is particularly helpful for children.

 

5. When fire is present, occupants should close interior and exterior doors as they exit to limit the spread of flames and toxic smoke.

 

6. Once out of the structure, stay out!  Firefighters have the training and special equipment to enter the structure for extinguishment and rescue.

 

 

T.J. Wilham

Public Safety Communications Director

City of Albuquerque

Office of Mayor Richard J. Berry

Cell – 505-350-4685

Office – 505-768-3327

www.cabq.gov/public-safety

 

Stolen Vehicle Arrest, Felony Warrants

Time of Offense : 0809

Date of Offense : 9/30/10

Location of Offense : 8800 Tunnaboria SW

Victim 1 Name : Michael Hernandez

Victim 1 Age : 29

Suspect/Offender 1 Name : Adrian Lovato

Suspect/Offender 2 Name : Luciano Lopez

Description of Event/Crime : Southwest Field Officers recieved an audio
car alarm call in the area of 86th/Tower. Upon arrival, officers located
Adrian Lovato attempting to dismatle the car alarm from a vehicle he was
seen driving around the neighborhood by witness. The vehicle was also
occuppied by Luciano Lopez. During the investigation, the vehicle had
been reported stolen from the Northeast Area Command. Several items were
located inside the vehicle, which included a laptop, radios, jewelery,
and speakers that are suspected to be stolen. Lovato is a know gang and
has a outstanding felony warrant for a probation violation. Luciano is
also wanted for a outstanding drug warrant. case was turned over to Auto
Theft.

Fatal Apartment Fire

At 10:23pm, a full AFD dispatch was sent to a fully involved apartment fire at 6000 Topke Pl NE.

Five occupants, a mother and four children were in the apartment at the time of the fire. Prior to our arrival, the mother was able to evacuate three children and attempted to enter the apartment to find the last child and was pushed back by smoke and flame.

On arrival, units found fire and smoke shooting through the 2nd story windows and main door of the eight apartment section within the complex.

Units made an attempt to make an interior attack and conduct a search but were met by intense flame and smoke. R-15 made an attempt through the window to search for the victim but had to back out due to a partial roof collapse.

Crews protected exposures and knocked down the fire from the exterior. Fire was under control at 10:50pm.

When crews were able to enter the fire apartment, they discovered a deceased 1 year old infant.

Four of the eight apartments were completely destroyed.  Red Cross is assisting the family with food and clothing. The apartment manager has provided another apartment for the family.

Fire Investigation Officers are on scene to start their investigation into the cause and origin of the fire.

An engine will be on scene through the morning on fire watch to extinguish any hot spots that arise.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Search for Person

AFD has turned the scene over to Bernalillo County Fire Department. The area is their jurisdiction. AFD will remain on scene as mutual aid.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Arroyo Rescue

AMAFCA is on scene and has started draining the water below the train tracks. The predicted time given by AMAFCA is 3:00pm that we will be able to view anything in the immediate area.

A general search by AFD will be done from the shore line throughout the day.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Semi- Truck Fire

AFD was dispatched at 6:00am this morning to a semi-truck fire at the CNM Aviation Maintenance Center on the 2900 Block of Pan American Fwy NE .

On arrival, units found one semi completely engulfed and a second partially engulfed. Fire was contained within 20min with no injuries reported.

Fire Investigators are on scene to start their Investigation into the cause and origin of the fire.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Report of a Person In Arroyo

A 911 call came in at 3:30pm with the report of a person in the arroyo at Morningside and I-40. AFD units set up deployment sites at three different locations along the arroyo. AFD units are currently at Edith and the North Diversion Channel. We have not seen or located a person. APD Open Space is deploying their air boats to search the water.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Arrest Made By AFD Fire Investigators

AFD Arson investigators arrested Justin Jones at 11:00am on Friday, September 17th on the charge of Arson for an incendiary fire set at 621 Vista Abajo Dr. NE.   

Estimated Loss - $300,000

Date of Incident - 09/07/10 at 11:40pm. Location of Incident - 621 Vista Abajo Dr. NE

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Warren Apartment Fire

AFD was dispatched at 2:25pm to the 6200 Block of Indian School NE.  They arrived on scene to find light smoke coming from building D on the first floor. Crews immediately entered apartment D-126 and extinguished the fire within 2 min in the kitchen area.

The apartment was unoccupied at the time of the fire. No injuries and the cause and origin of the fire is under investigation. 

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Wind Ridge House Fire

AFD was dispatched to 1619 Wind Ridge Dr NW at 3:58am this morning to a fully involved three bay garage fire. Crews arrived minutes later to find heavy smoke and flame coming from the garage that extended to the second floor. The two occupants were sleeping at the time of the fire, were alerted by their smoke detectors, self evacuated, and called 911. The working smoke detection system potentially saved their lives. 

 

Crews fought the fire from the outside and once they got a handle on the fire, they entered the home to prevent further fire extension. No injuries were reported. The damage is estimated at $100,000. The cause and origin of the fire is under investigation by AFD.

 

 

 

Burger King Fire

AFD responded to a commercial structure fire at San Mateo and Osuna at 5:17pm. On arrival, crews found 10' flames coming from the exhaust system. The fire was contained to the exhaust system and was extinguished within 17 min.

Four employees and two customers were inside the building and self-evacuated prior to our arrival. No injuries were reported.





Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Vista Abejo Fire

At 1154,  APD called our Alarm requesting units to respond to a residential structure fire in the 600 block of Vista Abejo Dr NE.  All occupants self evacuated prior to our arrival. 

Once units arrived, they found fire shooting out of the 2nd floor patio and roof.  Units entered the home and proceeded up the stairs and were pushed back by smoke and flame.

After they completed their primary search for victims, the IC pulled the units out of the building because of collapse potential. Thirty seconds after crews exited the home, a partial roof collapse occurred. 

The fire was fought defensively and once crews got a hold of the fire, entered the building to complete extinguishment. Fire was extinguished within 40 min with no injuries reported. The home is a total loss.

A person of interest is being interviewed by Fire Investigation.   


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Washington Middle School Evacuated

AFD units responded to Washington Middle School shortly after 9:00am this morning to the report of smoke inside the building. All 650 personnel and students self-evacuated in an organized and smooth manner prior to our arrival.

The first arriving unit reported smoke coming from the roof. Crews entered through the front door and found light smoke throughout the school. Units also laddered the building and found tar smoking on the NW side of the roof.  The smoke seeped into the school through an opening. Roof repair was taking place at the school.

No injuries were reported and the evacuees will be allowed to return to normal school activities as soon as the smoke has been dispelled using the HVAC system.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Apartment Fire

AFD crews responded to a house fire that contained three apartments on the 200 Block of Cornell SE shortly after 4:00pm.

First units on scene reported heavy black smoke coming from the home. All three occupants self-evacuated prior to our arrival. Crews extended their hose line through the front door searching for the fire, the seat of the fire was discovered in the kitchen area and was extinguished within 15 min.

Heavy fire damage to bathroom and kitchen and smoke damage to one apartment only. The two other apartments were not damaged.

An older black lab was rescued by Lt. Chris Wilson and found to be uninjured.

Cause and origin of the fire is under investigation by AFD.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

City View Fire

AFD Engine 7 was dispatched to the area of Sunset and City View SW this morning at 11:02am to investigate the report of smoke.

A neighbor directed E-7 to the 700 block of City View Dr SW. Upon arrival, the crew found light smoke on the roof and through outside vents.

The Captain immediately called for a full dispatch. E-7 made entry through the front door and found heavy smoke throughout the trailer. While the crew were searching for victims and advancing the hose line, they found two deceased bodies.

After completing their search, AFD Fire Investigation and APD Violent Crimes were called. The fire was extinguished within 35 min.

AFD Fire Investigation and APD Violent Crimes are working together to determine how the fire started and how the victims died.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

First Baptist Church Fire

At 11:18pm last night, Engine 2 was dispatched to the report of smoke in
the area of Central and Broadway. Engine 2 arrived and found moderate
smoke in First Baptist Church at 101 Broadway NE and called for a full
dispatch. E-2 was in the process of advancing a hose line when Lt. Paul
Chavez experienced smoke inhalation and was transported to Presbyterian
for evaluation and remained at the hospital overnight for observation.

The additional units arrived and found heavy smoke and flame throughout
the 4-story building. A 2nd Alarm was dispatched due to the heavy fire
involvement and size of the building. Seventy + fire fighters contained
the fire to the first three stories within two hours. Heavy smoke and
fire damage to three floors and minor smoke damage to the fourth.

The cause and origin of the fire is under investigation by AFD and ATF.
Federal law requires ATF to investigate any Church damaged by fire.

FF's Catch Burglar at Fire Station

This morning a man was caught rifling through a FF's motorcycle tank bag in the bay at Fire Station 6.

Lt. Max Montgomery walked in the bay and asked the man what he was doing and why he was in the bay.  He said he wasn't doing anything and denied taking anything or being in the tank bag.

The crew detained him until APD arrived. The police officer then conducted a search of the man and found an item from the tank bag belonging to Max Montgomery.  APD arrested the man and returned the Fire Fighters belongings. 
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD SAVES TEEN FROM RAGING ARROYO

At around 300pm, a 16 year old male was crossing the arroyo at Juan Tabo and Candelaria with minimal water visible. On his second step into the arroyo, an enormous gush of water knocked him off his feet and carried him west down the arroyo. A friend of his called 911 from the scene.

Thirty- three AFD personnel were set up at various locations to attempt a rescue.  At Morningside and Cutler, station 13 crews launched a rescue throw bag into the water, the young man grabbed a hold of it and he was successfully pulled to safety. He was transported to Presbyterian in stable condition with cuts and bruises.

One of the Fire Fighters involved in the rescue was taken to Presbyterian with a minor cut to the hand.

AFD SAVES TEEN FROM RAGING ARROYO

At around 300pm, a 16 year old male was crossing the arroyo at Juan Tabo and Candelaria with minimal water visible. On his second step into the arroyo, an enormous gush of water knocked him off his feet and carried him west down the arroyo.

AFD crews were set up at various locations to attempt a rescue of this young man. At Morningside and Cutler, station 13 crews launched a rescue throw bag into the water, the young man grabbed a hold of it and he was successfully pulled to safety. He was transported to Presbyterian in stable condition with cuts and bruises.

One of the Fire Fighters involved in the rescue was taken to Presbyterian with a minor cut to the hand.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Fire on Desert Breeze

AFD crews were dispatched to 2216 Desert Breeze SW at 215am this morning to a fully involved abandoned home.

The roof was completely engulfed when crews arrived.  Engine 14 crew contained the fire to the home and protected the home next door from fire and smoke.

The fire was under control within 40 min. No injuries reported and the cause is under investigation.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Solid Waste Vehicle Fire

AFD units were dispatched to a Solid Waste vehicle trash fire at 1:00pm at the intersection of Ponderosa and Ortiz NE.

The driver noticed heavy smoke coming from the truck after a pickup at a nearby apartment complex. He dumped the trash on the street to prevent damage to the vehicle.

Fire was contained to the trash pile within 10 min and city bobcats are enroute to mix up the trash so it can be fully extinguished.

A nearby tree was damaged by the fire . No evacuations were ordered and no injuries were reported. Cause of fire is unknown.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD Quickly Extinguishes Fire

AFD units were dispatched to 300 Dorado Pl SE at 2:47pm to an town home fire. Heavy smoke upon arrival. Occupants heard the smoke detectors and self evacuated. Crews attacked the fire from the interior and extinguished the fire within 20 min. Heavy smoke and fire damage to the home. Eight occupants displaced. Red Cross has been requested.

No injuries and the cause and origin is under investigation.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Wilson Middle School Gas Leak

AFD units are on scene at a gas leak incident at Wilson Middle School. Approx 500 students have been evacuated and are staging at Bull head Park.

NM Gas is currently working on the leak. Unknown when the children will be let back in the building.

No reports of injuries.



Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Fire at 4400 Paseo del Norte NE

AFD units were dispatched at 11:10am to the PNM Power Plant to a structure fire in a three story concrete bunker that sits between three 150 ft power plants.

The fire was quickly contained to a storage area on the 1st floor. The storage area contained paper goods and cleaning supplies.

AFD units prevented the fire from extenting to the power plants and nearby structures.

No injuries and the cause is unknown at this time.
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

The Albuquerque Fire Dept is working a significant structure fire on ABQ's westside, in station 17's run District fire is at "New Horizons School"
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

 AFD fighting an Apartment fire two units involved. 9405 Marron CI  NE  at 11.23 am 
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD units responded to a residential structure fire this morning at 4:00am on the 10000 Block of Docena NW. When units arrived on scene, they noticed light smoke coming from the home.

Units entered the home to investigate through the front door and found the fire was in the space between the 1st and 2nd floor.  The fire was quickly extinguished. The home was unoccupied at the time.

Once the fire was extinguished, crews noticed several suspicious plants located in the 2nd floor bedrooms. APD's Narcotic's Division was called in and they are investigating the incident.

Fire and smoke damage to the 2nd floor bedrooms.

No injuries.

The home has been marked substandard by the city's Nuisance Abatement Team.

The cause and origin of the fire is under investigation by AFD's Fire Investigation Division.

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

UNM Biomedical Research Facility

AFD units responded to a commercial structure fire at 1915 Camino De Salud next to UNM Hospital.  400 employees were   evacuated from the facility and the near by Cancer Center.  The fire started on the exterior wall on the ground floor and traveled along the outside to the 3rd floor. Smoke and fire damage to the exterior wall and into several 2nd and 3rd floor offices.

No injuries and the fire started from a generator that was being load tested on the exterior ground floor.



Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

 Albuquerque Fire Dept. is currently working a residential structure fire at 10108 Range Rd SW
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD units responded to a downed power line on the 1700 block of Chacoma SW. Power line started  nearby brush on fire and extended to the home causing minor damage. The line is still active, we are waiting on PNM to shut down the electricity.

We have active flame outside the home.


Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD Fire

residential structure fire, started by downed power line,,1704 Chacoma PL SW 
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Update Fire at 2400 Block Of Zickert NW

Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

----- Original Message -----
From: Romero, Melissa
To: Media Contacts; AFD Alerts
Sent: Thu Apr 29 07:50:50 2010
Subject: Fire at 2400 Block Of Zickert NW

At 6:58am, a full AFD dispatch responded to a condemned Residential structure fire. Upon arrival, units reported heavy smoke coming from the roof.

We fought the fire offensively for 20 min and the IC made the decision to go defensive because of the heavy smoke inside the building.

A search was made of the structure and found to be empty.

Heavy smoke and fire damage to the roof, heavy smoke damage throughout the house.

Currently no injuries to fire fighters. Fire Investigators are on scene to investigate the origin and cause of the fire.




Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

AFD Structure Fire

Residential structure fire
2423 zickert nw 
smoke coming from eve's,heavy smoke 
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Sig Alert 04/23/10 Tact Plan

Incident Type: Bosque Fire Prevention Plan

Date of Offense: 04/23/2010

Location of Offense: Albuquerque Open Space

Victim 1 Name: City of Albuquerque

Description of Event: Open Space officers began talking to transients believed to be residing in remote parts of the Bosque in an area from I-25 north to Corrales (12 linear miles) in order to prevent fires. Individuals were given 5 days to relocate and officers will return with the Crisis Outreach and Support Team on day 3 to ensure they have available assistance to them.

/nh

Sig Alert 04/23/10 Warrant

Type of Incident: Warrant

Time of Offense: 0700 hours

Date of Offense: April, 23, 2010

Location of Offense: 700 GRIEGOS NW

Description of Event: Criminal Nuisance Abatement Unit, Gang Unit, and Valley Impact Team executed a warrant at this location. The residence was posted substandard.

/nh

Sig Alert 04/22/10 Robbery

Type of Incident: Robbery

Time of Offense: 1654 hours

Date of Offense: APRIL 22, 2010

Location of Offense: 3230 COORS BLVD NW

Description of Event: Robbery/purse snatching-two elderly women were in the Twisters parking lot when both subjects were drug by offenders. Both victim's received injuries and were taken to hospital. Three male offenders in a white Monte Carlo with license plate covered.

/nh

Sig Alert 04/22/2010 Felony Arrest

Type of Incident: Felony Arrest

Time of Offense: 1730 hours

Date of Offense: April 22, 2010

Location of Offense: 1040 Texas NE

Suspect Name: Jesse Vallejos (11-5-1980)

Description of Event: Eastside Narcotics conducted a search warrant at 1040 Texas NE. Detective Carpenter received several citizen complaints concerning possible narcotics related crimes. Detective Carpenter was granted a search warrant for the apartment and for the offender, identified as Jesse Vallejos. During the search of the apartment, marijuana was found and seized. Vallejos was on probation for trafficking at the time of this incident. State Probation and Parole were notified and a warrant was immediately issued for Mr. Vallejos.

/nh

Sig Alert 04/22/10 Robbery

Incident Type: ROBBERY

Time of Offense: 1535 hours

Date of Offense: April 22, 2010

Location of Offense: 11928 CANDELARIA RD NE

Description of Event: ROBBERY OCCURRED AT THE NORTH HEIGHTS FOOD STORE AT GUN POINT. MALE OFFENDER ARRIVED AT STORE, OFFENDER THEN FIRES MULTIPLE ROUNDS AND CLERK IS STRUCK IN THE LEG AREA. OFFENDER TRIES TO TAKE REGISTER BUT IS UNSUCCESSFUL. CLERK TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AND IS IN STABLE CONDITION. OFFENDER RAN OUT, UNKNOWN DIRECTION OF TRAVEL. OFFENDER IS CAUCASIAN MALE ADULT, 6'2", 180 POUNDS, LATE 20'S, BLOND HAIR, BLACK JACKET

/nh

Sig Alert 04/22/10 Felony Arrest

Incident Type: Felony Arrest

Time of Offense: 0900 hours

Date of Offense: April 22, 2010

Location of Offense: San Mateo / Lomas

Suspect/Offender 1 Name : James Martinez (09/15/77)

Description of Event: On April 6, 2010, the FASTT Unit began looking for Mr. Martinez. Mr. Martinez was wanted for domestic violence and felony child endangerment. On the evening of April 6, 2010, FASTT Detectives encountered a subject who advised us that Martinez was a professional MMA fighter who teaches martial arts in town. Over the next couple of weeks FASTT Detectives worked with acquaintances of Martinez who informed FASTT that he recently fought in Las Vegas, NV and was in fact back in town. On April 21, 2010, FASTT asked for the assistance of the Gang Unit. Det. Hernandez assisted FASTT Detectives in the finding two additional addresses that Martinez was known to frequent. After being unable to acquire Mr. Martinez at any of his known locations and considering him to be a danger to the community, the FASTT Unit requested that Public Information Officer Hamby release a wanted bulletin to the media to assist with the apprehension efforts. On April 22, 2010, Mr. Martinez agreed to turn himself into FASTT and gang detectives at Lomas and San Mateo, which he did without incident.

/nh

ALBUQUERQUE FIRE DEPARTMENT IS CURRENTLY WORKING A STRUCTURE FIRE AT 8000 MONTGOMERY//LA ENTRADA APTS //
Melissa Romero
Public Information Officer
Albuquerque Fire Department
11500 Sunset Gardens SW
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-768-9317

Fire 2400 Central NW

AFD units responded to a motel fire at 1211pm. All 36 units were
evacuated. Fire under control at 1226pm. Major damage to the fire unit
and moderate damage to the two connecting units.

No injuries and the cause/origin are under investigation.