Early on in the incident as the second alarm units were just arriving heavy smoke can be seen coming from all of the first floor. The fire was initially believed to have started in the basement and quickly extended to the first floor and eventually through the roof. Crews had major access problems due to security doors and bars on windows. A firefighter extinguishes a bit of remaining fire just inside the store front window during overhaul operations. A firefighter from Engine 17 knocks down the fire on the second floor through a window.
Fire is visible from the roof of the building.
A similar shot showing additional fire coming through the roof. A firefighter from Rescue Squad 1 walks away from the building. An overview from the rear of the building after the fire had been somewhat under control. Carter a few minutes after his body was rushed from the scene by a medic unit. This photo was taken before the fire broke through the roof.