According to fire officials, the Lewiston Fire Department responded to reports of a structure fire at a 20-unit apartment complex on Main Street. When crews arrived, heavy flames and thick smoke were visible coming from the building’s third floor, prompting an aggressive firefighting operation.
Firefighters from Lewiston were assisted by neighboring departments, including Auburn, as crews battled the blaze and worked to prevent it from spreading further. Roads surrounding the incident were temporarily closed to allow emergency personnel to safely operate at the scene, causing traffic disruptions in the area.
Officials said there were no immediate reports of injuries, but the apartment building is expected to be uninhabitable for an extended period due to the significant fire damage. Residents were forced to evacuate as crews continued extinguishing hot spots and assessing the structure.
The Lewiston Fire Chief said the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. Preliminary observations suggest the blaze may have originated on an exterior porch before spreading into the apartment complex, though investigators have not reached a final determination.
Firefighters remained at the scene into the evening conducting overhaul operations, searching for hidden hot spots, and ensuring the fire was fully extinguished. Investigators are expected to continue examining the building to determine the origin and cause of the blaze.
Residents are urged to avoid the affected section of Main Street while emergency crews complete their work. Authorities are expected to provide additional updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available regarding the extent of the damage and the condition of displaced residents.