The fire broke out in a garbage dump next to the Mexican restaurant Alejandra’s just before 4:30 on Sunday afternoon. It then quickly spread to the roofs of many buildings in the Main and Floral areas. Video from the scene shows huge flames rising from the roof of the building, leaving dense gray plumes of smoke visible from several miles away on the Kaweah Health Medical Center’s skycam camera. Firefighters from several services rushed to the aid of Visalia Fire, including those from Tulare County Fire Department and CAL FIRE. Visalia Police Chief Jason Salazar said the source of the fire was suspected. Visalia police and fire brigade are working together to investigate the cause. Officials said three businesses were hit by the blaze – a jewelry store, a Jimmy John restaurant and Alejandra’s. No one was injured. Firefighters worked all Sunday afternoon to bring the blaze under control and protect the Visalia Fox Theater and other buildings in the downtown area. Visalia Mayor Steve Nelsen said the city will do everything it can to help businesses reopen. “One thing about Visalians city center – we are very resilient. We will come together … and when they reopen, we will show the support and love they have for the community.” Some of Alejandra’s employees were still in shock when Action News spoke to them. They say they fled the building when they saw the smoke. Copyright © 2022 KFSN-TV. All rights reserved.
