Huge plumes of smoke were seen billowing from the Posey Tube building on the evening of Monday, April 8. Alameda Fire Department (AFD) responded to a report at 7:30 p.m. of a small pickup truck that caught fire 1900 feet into the Posey Tube, generating the thick smoke that caught many Alamedans’ attention.
AFD was assisted by Oakland Fire in putting out the vehicle fire. In response to the call, AFD sent three engines, two trucks, a medic unit, a Chief Officer, and the CARE team, while Oakland’s response included three engines, a truck, and a Chief Officer. Alameda Battalion 1 took command at the beginning of the response and sent a search team into the tube from the Alameda side. Oakland resources entered from their side and were able to locate the burning vehicle. It took 15 minutes to extinguish the fire, AFD stated.
CalTrans was notified to activate the ventilation system in the tube in order to force out the smoke and provide clean air for those attempting to evacuate. Many people left their vehicles behind during the emergency to exit the tube on foot. They were directed to a collection area while they waited.
No injuries were reported to civilians or first responders. Subsequent searches on foot did not locate any victims. Evacuees were permitted to return to their vehicles once the fire was extinguished and the smoke was cleared. The Posey Tube was reopened to the public around 9 p.m., and AFD reports state the call was closed at 9:18 p.m.
