A landmark of downtown Tacoma was nearly lost Tuesday afternoon when a fire broke out on the roof of the historic Temple Theatre. The blaze, which was reported around 4:19 p.m., sent thick plumes of dark smoke over the Stadium District, drawing a massive response from the Tacoma Fire Department.
Details of the Incident:
- Rapid Response: What began as a standard building fire call was quickly upgraded to a two-alarm response due to the height and historic nature of the structure. Firefighters focused their efforts on a roof deck, managing to contain the flames to the top of the building by approximately 5:00 p.m.
- The Damage: While the structural fire was limited to the exterior roof deck, the interior of the building suffered significant water damage. Officials noted that water seeped down into the fifth and fourth floors, though the full extent of the architectural impact is still being assessed.
- No Casualties: Fortunately, no injuries were reported among civilians or the fire crews who remained on the scene into the evening to monitor for hot spots.
A Community Landmark:
The building, located at 47 St. Helens Avenue, is a cornerstone of Tacoma’s history. Originally constructed in 1927 as the Masonic Temple Building, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993. Over the decades, it has evolved into a beloved community hub, serving as a convention center, catering hall, and popular theater venue.
Next Steps:
Local investigators are currently working to determine the cause of the fire, though early reports suggest there is no evidence of arson or suspicious activity. In a display of neighborhood solidarity, a fundraiser has already been launched by local business owners to help the theater’s owners navigate the upcoming repairs and restoration efforts.
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