Firefighters successfully extinguished a fire that occurred at an events center building in Lakewood overnight, prompting evacuations and road closures.

Rapid Response by Firefighters

In the early hours, West Pierce Fire and Rescue (WPFR) swiftly responded to reports of a business fire near the intersection of Bridgeport Way SW and 115th St. Ct. SW. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered intense flames and smoke billowing from the Watson Signature Event Center. Due to the severity of the situation, the incident was promptly escalated to a two-alarm fire.

Safety Precautions Implemented

Given the hazardous conditions, firefighters adopted an exterior attack strategy to contain the blaze, prioritizing the safety of personnel and nearby residents. Thankfully, no individuals were inside the building at the time of the fire. However, as a precautionary measure, occupants of a nearby apartment complex were evacuated due to smoke concerns.

Support for Evacuees

In response to the evacuations, Pierce Transit mobilized a bus to provide temporary shelter for those displaced by the incident, demonstrating a coordinated effort to ensure the well-being of affected individuals.

Road Closures and Traffic Advisories

As firefighting operations continued, authorities closed off Bridgeport Way from Pacific Highway to 112th Street, urging the public to utilize alternative routes to avoid congestion and facilitate emergency response efforts.

Ongoing Investigation

While the fire has been extinguished, WPFR remains actively engaged at the scene, conducting investigations to determine the cause and origin of the blaze. Updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.

Conclusion: Vigilance and Preparedness

The prompt response and collaborative efforts of emergency responders were instrumental in containing the fire at the Lakewood events center, highlighting the importance of vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding communities against such incidents. As investigations continue, residents are advised to remain cautious and stay informed of any developments. For real-time updates on this and other local news stories, download The Local News App.

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