On August 28, 2024, at approximately 10:04 AM, units from the Escondido Fire Department were dispatched to a reported fire at 2010 E. Grand Avenue. The first arriving Engine Company reported smoke coming from the attic of a two-story apartment building and declared the incident a working fire. Due to the size and complexity of the building, a second alarm was requested.
Firefighters aggressively attacked the fire from multiple second-story apartments and were able to limit fire damage to four upstairs units. Four first-floor apartments sustained various degrees of water damage, and the four remaining apartments sustained minor smoke damage. It took Firefighters approximately 40 minutes to contain the fire and another hour to perform overhaul and salvage operations. No Firefighters or civilians were injured during the incident.
Over 40 Firefighters from Escondido, San Marcos, Rancho Santa Fe, Valley Center, San Pasqual Reservation, and Vista Fire Departments responded to assist with the incident. The Escondido Police Department assisted with evacuations and traffic control. SDG&E responded to disconnect both gas and electrical service to the involved building.
The American Red Cross responded to provide housing assistance to the 18 people displaced by the fire.
The cause and origin of the fire is under investigation.