Downtown Yuma fire destroys 1891 historic building
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Yuma police said through their investigation, an unknown suspect started the structure fires at a vacant home located at 452 S. Maiden Lane and the historical Southern Pacific Freight Depot located at 430 S. Main Street.
The Yuma Fire Department responded to the fire before 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
“Thankfully crews were able to operate quickly and get the fire under control," said Yuma Fire Captain, David Padilla Jr. "They did prevent the fire from moving to any adjacent structures. They did prevent the fires from hitting any additional injuries.”
The Yuma Police Department (YPD) said fire crews found the vacant home on fire which is about 200 feet to the east of the freight depot.
Both fires were extinguished and there were no injuries reported.
Many Yumans said they were devastated by the loss.
"Feel like everybody that grew up here has taken photos there you know. That’s a part of Yuma’s history that has burnt down and we don’t have it anymore," said Rebel And Rove worker, Tatum Ward.
Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls said, “I know that our police and fire department are working hard. And if there’s somebody responsible- what we can do. To bring justice to the system.”
YPD said the Yuma Fire Department Fire Investigators determined the fires had been intentionally set.
Both buildings are a total loss, said YPD.
Yuma police said its Property Crimes detectives are working on a possible suspect in this case.
If you or anyone else have information on this case, contact YPD at (928) 783-4421 or 78-CRIME at (928) 782-7463 to remain anonymous.
