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Massive Fire Devastates Downtown St. Louis Warehouse Complex Near Gateway Arch — Fire Chief: "We're Going to Be Here a While"

Early Friday, a massive fire engulfed a four-building warehouse complex in downtown St. Louis, prompting a response by more than 200 firefighters. One building collapsed and flames spread to nearby electrical lines and train tracks, creating additional hazards. Officials evacuated people living at the site; no injuries were reported. Firefighters say the blaze is contained but could smolder for days while investigators and utility crews assess the scene.

06:06 AM, 11/29/2025Society

Stunning footage captured a large fire ripping through a four-building warehouse complex in downtown St. Louis early Friday, drawing a multi-agency response of more than 200 firefighters. The blaze ignited around 3 a.m., spread rapidly through the complex and caused one building to collapse.

Response and hazards

Fire crews battled flames that spread to nearby electrical lines and adjacent train tracks, creating additional hazards and complicating suppression efforts. Commanders said the presence of stored combustible materials and structural collapse has allowed embers and hot spots to persist, and crews warned the site could smolder for days.

Evacuations, damage and utilities

Fire Department Chief Dennis Jenkerson said firefighters evacuated a group of people who had been living in and around the warehouses; there were no reported injuries among residents or responders. Utility crews reported roughly 80 customers experienced power outages in the area as crews assessed damage and worked to safely restore service.

"We're going to be here a while," Chief Jenkerson said, adding that the incident could continue to require operations for two to three days while crews conduct extinguishment and overhaul.

Investigation

Officials emphasized it was too early to determine the cause of the fire. Investigators and utility crews remained on scene to evaluate damage, secure hazards and determine whether electrical issues or other factors played a role.

Local response teams from multiple agencies continued mitigation and cleanup efforts as firefighters monitored hot spots and prevented further spread to surrounding properties.

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