At approximately 12:38 AM, firefighters responded to a commercial fire at 43530 N 17th Street in Lancaster. Upon arrival, Engine 134 reported smoke and flames visible from the first and second floors of the structure.
The battalion chief on the scene quickly escalated the response to a second alarm, bringing in crews from Battalions 11 and 17. It took firefighters around 30 minutes to achieve knockdown, but overhaul efforts extended for several hours.
The Lancaster Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation into the fire, the fifth incident reported at this motel in 2024. Officials have noted ongoing issues with the property being used by the homeless, raising concerns about safety and recurring fire hazards.
Further details about the fire’s cause or potential injuries have not yet been released.