Mayor Lee Statement on Three-Alarm Fire in Downtown Oakland

"This morning, a three-alarm fire displaced numerous Oakland residents from their homes. Under the leadership of Fire Chief Damon Covington, over 50 firefighters evacuated residents and businesses and brought the fire under control by 8:40 AM. Three people were treated and transported for smoke inhalation, and one firefighter suffered a minor injury.

When Oaklanders face hardship, we step up.

Residents have been transported to a temporary shelter where City staff will be working around the clock to support them. We're coordinating with the Red Cross and our partners to meet immediate needs like clothing and supplies. We're also working to connect residents with legal resources so they know their rights.

I want to thank the Oakland Fire Department for their swift action and expertise, and the American Red Cross for their crucial support. Our community looks out for one another.

We take care of our own. We're going to keep working with our community partners to make sure these residents are not left behind. The cause of the fire remains under investigation."

Tenants seeking free legal services should contact Centro Legal at (510) 437-1554 or tenantsrights@centrolegal.org.

- Mayor Barbara Lee