A large, late-night blaze in South-Central El Paso on Saturday, April 18 has been classified as arson, a spokesman for the El Paso Fire Department confirmed. The fire was elevated to a Condition 4, signaling a major structure fire that required a broad emergency response.

Fire crews arrived to heavy smoke and flames and worked to bring the situation under control. A Condition 4 response typically mobilizes multiple engine and ladder companies, specialized crews and incident command resources to attack the fire and protect surrounding homes and businesses.

Officials say the building sustained significant damage as crews focused on preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent structures. Neighbors were briefly evacuated as a precaution while firefighters secured the scene and conducted search and safety checks.

Investigators with the fire department are handling the arson probe and have been examining the scene to determine how the fire was set. Authorities have not released information about potential suspects or motives and ask anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Residents in the area were reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. The department also urged people to check nearby security cameras and contact investigators if they captured anything that could assist the investigation.