photo by: (WPEC)
A towering fire tore through the warehouse of a beloved West Palm Beach non-profit organization, that is known for giving hundreds of bicycles to children every year.
Firefighters rushed to the Jack the Bike Man building, at 420 Claremore Drive, around 4:30 a.m. Flames filled the multi-story structure and ripped a hole through the roof.
Crews have worked to knock them down for hours. They say that every time they stop showering the warehouse with water the flames rekindle, and they start spraying again.
A statement from Jack the Bike Man indicated the shop itself is in jeopardy as well. It explained that damage caused by the flames could cause the warehouse to collapse onto it. The organization also noted that it has been trying to sell the building.
“The building was originally meant to be our forever home – and has been on the market for sale – is currently on fire,” its post stated. “We are hoping and praying for the best in this terrible situation.”
The organization assured supporters that it would provide updates as more information becomes available.
A stretch of nearby South Dixie Highway about eight blocks north of Belvedere Road was closed heading into rush hour to give emergency responders space to work. Most of the lanes of the West Palm Beach artery had reopened by 8 a.m. with only one southbound lane still shut down.
Homes and businesses on the south side of the warehouse were evacuated for precautionary measures. Officials did not say how many people were forced from where they work or live.
Train tracks run near where the fire is burning. Firefighters ran a hose under them, allowing Brightline and freight trains to operate at their normal schedule; however, they may slow as they pass through the area.
No injuries have been reported. Fire inspectors are waiting their opportunity to get inside the warehouse to determine what sparked the fire.
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Source: cbs12
