Colonie Fire: Multi-Alarm Blaze on Central Avenue Disrupts Route 5

A multi-alarm commercial building fire in the Town of Colonie, New York, prompted a major response from area fire departments early this morning, with heavy smoke and flames reported along the busy Central Avenue (Route 5) corridor.

Emergency calls began coming in shortly after 6:45 a.m., with reports of smoke and flames visible from the roof of a commercial property near Taft Avenue.

The response was subsequently expanded as firefighters encountered significant fire conditions inside the building. By approximately 11:30 a.m., the main body of the fire had reportedly been knocked down, although crews remained at the scene for overhaul and other follow-up operations.

No injuries were reported among building occupants or responding firefighters in the information provided.

Firefighters Shift to Defensive Operations

Initial crews from the Midway and Fuller Road Fire Departments responded to the commercial property and began working to contain the blaze.

Fire conditions reportedly extended into the roof and attic areas of the structure. After firefighters encountered concerns about the stability of the building’s roof system, interior operations were reportedly halted and crews transitioned to defensive firefighting.

Aerial equipment and large water streams were then used to attack the remaining fire from outside the structure while firefighters worked to protect neighboring properties.

Utility personnel were also reportedly dispatched to assist with isolating electrical and natural-gas connections around the affected building.

Regional Fire Departments Assist

The scale of the incident resulted in mutual-aid assistance from neighboring departments and emergency services.

The response reportedly included assistance from:

• Fuller Road Fire Department
• Shaker Road-Loudonville Fire Department
• West Albany Volunteer Fire Department
• Town of Colonie Emergency Medical Services

Additional firefighters and emergency personnel helped support suppression and overhaul operations as the incident continued.

The heavy smoke, cold temperatures, and emergency equipment operating around Central Avenue reportedly created additional challenges for crews working at the scene.

Central Avenue Traffic Disrupted

The fire also caused significant disruption along Central Avenue, or Route 5, during the morning commute.

According to the information provided, Central Avenue was closed in both directions between Wolf Road and Reber Street while firefighters operated in the area.

Police reportedly redirected traffic and advised motorists to avoid the affected section of the corridor. Drivers should expect delays and follow current instructions from law enforcement and transportation officials while emergency operations continue.

The precise duration of the closure and any additional restrictions may change as crews complete their work.

Building Sustains Extensive Damage

The commercial structure reportedly suffered extensive fire, smoke, water, and structural damage, with portions of the roof collapsing during the incident.

The damage assessment remains ongoing, and structural personnel may need to evaluate the remaining building components before the property can be considered safe for entry.

Nearby businesses may also be affected by access restrictions, smoke, debris, or utility work associated with the emergency response.

No Injuries Reported

At the time of the available update, no injuries had been reported involving occupants or firefighters.

Emergency medical personnel were reportedly present as a precaution while crews continued working at the scene.

Information about the number of people inside the building when the fire began was not provided.

Investigation Into Cause Underway

The origin and cause of the Colonie fire remain under investigation.

Fire investigators are expected to examine the damaged structure and review available information, including surveillance footage from nearby properties, as part of the effort to determine how the blaze began.

No definitive cause was provided in the information available.

Authorities may also assess whether the remaining structure requires additional stabilization or demolition to protect people using the nearby roadway.

Colonie Fire: Key Details

The Colonie fire remains an active emergency response and investigation. Residents, commuters, and nearby businesses should rely on official Town of Colonie, fire, police, and transportation updates for information about road conditions, access restrictions, and any further safety advisories.

Information here is provided for general informational purposes only. Details concerning the fire, road closures, damage, participating agencies, and investigation may change as authorities release additional information.