Firefighters were still battling hot spots on an extra-alarm blaze at a building in Austin on the West Side Wednesday morning.
The fire broke out around 4:20 a.m. in the 5000 block of West Lake Street, according to the Chicago Fire Department.
As of about 8:50 a.m., firefighters were still putting out hot spots from the fire, fire department spokesperson Larry Langford said.
“They’re still pouring water on because they have some burning going on,” Langford said. “So it’s not extinguished yet.”
The roof of the building — which is for lease — collapsed and caused “extensive” damage, Langford said.
Update the 2 11 5045 Lake. Firefighters on new shift starting their day at fire scene. Multiple master streams in place CFD drone in operation Two workers escaped the fire they are ok. pic.twitter.com/CJTgfDfKaT
— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) April 16, 2025
Two workers dismantling equipment noticed the fire and called 911 before escaping the building, Langford said. They both declined medical attention.
About 125 fire department personnel responded to the fire and used a drone and several water hoses to try and extinguish the flames, fire officials said.
Green Line trains were on the move again with residual delays between the Ashland and Harlem stops due to the fire, according to the CTA.
The cause of the fire wasn’t fully known, but fire officials say no foul play is involved.
No injuries were reported.