Wednesday afternoon at 12:08 PM, the Knox County Emergency Communications District received a 911 reporting a possible fire in the ceiling at 5700 Western Ave. 

On the arrival of the first Knoxville Fire unit, heavy smoke was reported coming from the building's roof. Upon entering the building, it was discovered that the fire was coming from the heating and air system. 

KFD crews quickly began accessing the roof and found a fire in a roof unit that had possibly spread into the attic space. Smoke was also quickly filling the majority of the building. KFD crews were able to locate the main portion of the fire and quickly gained control of the situation. Due to the size of the building and drop ceilings throughout crews had to spend a considerable amount of time conducting overhaul and looking for hidden fire. 

The business was open and occupied at the time of the fire. The alarm system sounded, and with the help of the staff, the building was evacuated quickly; no injuries were reported. 

Knoxville Fire Investigators have determined the cause to be due to a faulty heating and air system.

KFD is currently on the scene working to remove residual smoke. The building has suffered heavy smoke damage throughout and moderate water damage.

1 Quint Company 
1 Squad Company 
1 Engine Company 
1 Ladder Company 
1 Rescue Company 
2 Battalion Chiefs 
16 Members