Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to reflect information from the Kingsport Fire Department.
KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) — According to Assistant Fire Chief Terry Arnold, the Kingsport Fire Department (KFD) received a call just before 6 a.m. Wednesday in reference to an apartment building fire on Center Street in Downtown Kingsport.
Upon arrival, crews found heavy flames in the center of the building. The fire was reportedly under control in around an hour, according to a KFD release, and six fire engines responded to the scene.
Arnold told News Channel 11 the KFD has responded to three separate fires at the location within the past year. The building was deemed dilapidated by the City of Kingsport and was ordered to be demolished in 2020, stated Arnold, and the owners are reportedly appealing the order in court.
The Kingsport Police Department (KPD) previously asked motorists to seek alternate routes due to the fire.
Arnold confirmed the building was empty and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
