Massive Fire Breaks Out At Vacant Downtown Hotel

BIRMINGHAM, AL - Birmingham firefighters are currently battling a blaze at the vacant Hospitality Inn building on 7th Avenue South. The Birmingham Fire Department has been on the scene since approximately 9:15 this morning.

The Hospitality Inn has been closed for at least five years. It is adjacent to Yum Yai Thai restaurant and the Chai Market. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Sebastian Carrillo told Alabama Media Group there is a firewall between the businesses which helped hold off the blaze from stressing initially. However, authorities said a basement runs along all of the buildings, and eventually the fire spread to neighboring businesses.

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As of noon, the fire has reportedly been contained. Investigators said they believe the fire was caused intentionally. There were no fatalities in the blaze, a Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service firefighter was taken to the hospital with smoke inhalation and is expected to be released tonight.

The fire is under investigation by the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service.