Fast-moving fire roars through Philadelphia warehouse

A rapidly spreading fire raged through a commercial building in Philadelphia, sending flames soaring high into the air and sending thick, black smoke visible for miles

PHILADELPHIA — A rapidly spreading fire raged through a commercial building in Philadelphia early Friday morning, sending flames shooting high into the air and belching thick, black smoke that could be seen for miles.

The fire in the city’s Frankford neighborhood began around 5:30 a.m. Friday in a four-story warehouse, fire officials said. The warehouse ā€” which was unoccupied at the time ā€” has an auto repair shop in the back.

No injuries were reported, but several nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution, while other residents were told to stay indoors and keep their windows closed. About 150 firefighters battled the blaze, which also burned several trees and apparently blew up several cars before it was brought under control about three hours later, authorities said.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.