NEWS RELEASE 3/16/2026: Las Vegas Fire Department Responds to Late-Night Structure Fire on Grand Avenue

At approximately 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2026, the Las Vegas Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire in the 1300 block of Grand Avenue after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting smoke and flames coming from a commercial building. Upon arrival, crews found visible smoke and fire coming from the structure and immediately initiated an aggressive fire attack. Due to the intensity of the fire and the heavy fire load inside the building, a second page was requested to bring in off-duty personnel for additional support. Firefighters conducted a primary search of the structure and confirmed that no occupants were inside. Crews were able to quickly bring the fire under control and extinguish it, limiting structural damage despite furniture, paint, heaters, and various stored items inside.

The building involved was the former 85 Coffee Shop, a run-down structure that is currently not in operation. Once a popular gathering place “back in the day,” the coffee shop was known as a local hub where friends, families, and neighbors would meet for coffee, tacos, and conversation. Many longtime residents remember the coffee shop fondly, recalling the connections, stories, and memories built within its walls. Over the years, the building has remained unused, but it still holds historical and sentimental value for the community.

The incident also marked the first fire response for the City’s newest addition to the department, Deputy Fire Chief/Fire Marshal Andrew Duran, who recently completed his first week with the department. Duran previously served as Fire Chief for San Miguel County and served as Incident Commander during the incident. “Our crews did an outstanding job and worked together like a well-oiled machine,” said Deputy Chief Duran. “With the amount of combustible material inside the building, the potential for additional damage was high, but their quick response and coordinated efforts helped prevent the fire from spreading further.” The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time. The building’s owners reported they have experienced several break-ins at the property over the past few weeks.

As the region continues through a dry season with little precipitation, Deputy Chief Duran also encouraged the community to remain vigilant and report any signs of fire immediately. “If you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 immediately and do not assume that a fire or smoke has already been reported,” said Duran. “Provide as much information as possible to dispatch so first responders have the details they need to ensure they have the right tools and safety measures in place when responding.”

Fire Chief Steven Spann also encouraged residents and business owners to take advantage of Community Connect, a voluntary community risk-reduction program designed to help first responders access important information before arriving at an emergency scene. “Any residence or business within city limits can sign up for Community Connect,” said Chief Spann. “When utilized correctly, the information provided can help save lives and protect property.” Residents and business owners can register by providing basic contact information along with details such as household members, pets, emergency meeting locations, access codes, and utility shutoff locations, allowing first responders to make faster and more informed decisions during emergencies. Community members can sign up for the program by visiting: https://www.communityconnect.io/info/nm-cityoflasvegas.

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