A three-alarm fire swept through a midtown apartment building and damaged a studio where the Sacramento-based Tesla rock band and other artists have recorded. The blaze, which sent flames licking up the side of the old apartment building, was reported to the Sacramento Fire Department at 1:46 a.m.
Three of the four units in the apartment house at 1012 27th St. were occupied and one was vacant this morning when the fire erupted. Two residents confirmed to fire department spokesman Capt. Jonathan Burgess that they heard a popping sound before seeing any flames. The first fire spotted by residents was at the rear of the structure. It took more an hour for firefighters to gain control. The blaze spread to the recording studio, which is in a building behind the apartment house. The fire burned through the attic of the recording studio as firefighters poured water on the structure.
Firefighters had a tough time getting into the attic because of the solid construction of the old building and the sound-proofing added for acoustical reasons. Even while flames were present in the studio, firefighters put covers over the musical equipment to try to prevent water damage to instruments and memorabilia. One apartment was destroyed and another suffered major damage. A third had unit had smoke and water damage. At least 86 firefighters responded. No injuries were suffered by firefighters or apartment residents. Two cats died in the blaze, which is under investigation. Five residents received Red Cross emergency assistance including shelter, food and clothing.
Video of the fire:
