Battalion Chief Daniel Revere
On March 28, 2026, at approximately 6:48 p.m., NorthComm Dispatch Center received a report of a residential structure fire in an apartment located on Aster Street in Escondido. A first alarm structure fire response was dispatched. The first engine to arrive reported smoke from a distance and, upon arrival, requested a second alarm due to the potential for fire to spread and the threat to life and property.
Aggressive firefighting actions contained and controlled the fire in approximately 20 minutes. The second-floor fire-involved apartment sustained major damage, and the downstairs unit sustained minor damage. One civilian, an adult male, sustained cuts to his hands. The patient was treated on scene and released.
In all, nine fire engines, two trucks, two rescue ambulances, and two Battalion Chiefs responded to the fire. Additionally, units from the Escondido Police Department (EPD) provided road closures during the incident. The building manager provided occupants in both affected units with alternative living accommodations.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Safety Message: This unfortunate incident is an important reminder that smoke alarms save lives by providing early warning during a fire. Remember to test your smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed to ensure they are working properly.
