Fire Sweeps Through Abandoned Warehouse In Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (AP) _ A fire swept through an abandoned warehouse early Wednesday, collapsing the roof and forcing about 100 residents from nearby homes, authorities said. <br/><br/>Cars parked near the

Wednesday, June 20th 2007, 7:09 am

By: News On 6

PHILADELPHIA (AP) _ A fire swept through an abandoned warehouse early Wednesday, collapsing the roof and forcing about 100 residents from nearby homes, authorities said.

Cars parked near the warehouse caught fire, and the blaze sent up a towering plume of smoke visible from nearby Interstate 95 and other morning rush-hour routes.

Firefighters rescued a man from the second floor of the building, Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers said. The man was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Two firefighters had heat exhaustion, Ayers said.

The fire broke out about 4 a.m. and spread quickly through the five-story brick building, officials said.

Commuter trains were passing through a nearby station without stopping, and two bus routes were being detoured around the area, according to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.

Power was knocked out to about 200 customers, according to Peco Energy Co.