Cause of massive Everett waterfront fire still under investigation

EVERETT, Wash. - Authorities in Washington state have started to investigate the cause of a large structure fire that destroyed an apartment building under construction near the Everett waterfront and caused other damage Thursday.

The Everett Fire Department responded to the fire around 5:45 p.m. on the south building of the Waterfront Place Apartments at the Port of Everett’s Waterfront Place at Fisherman’s Harbor, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Seattle, The Seattle Times reported.

Several other spot fires including on the roof of a neighboring home also caused damage, authorities said. Power in the area was temporarily cut for safety reasons while authorities worked to douse the flames.

Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin said it's the largest fire she's ever witnessed. 

"Thankfully no lives were lost, but damage to the property was extensive," Franklin said. "Our hearts go out to our partners at the Port of Everett and the Waterfront Place project teams affected by this terrible loss. This is a sad setback. The Port and project partners, however, are resilient and I’m grateful to hear they are committed to rebuilding."

The fire was contained by 9:30 p.m.

Everett fire spokesperson Rachel Doniger reported a firefighter was taken to the hospital with minor burns to his hand. No other injuries were reported.

The cost of the damage has not yet been estimated.

Construction on the 266-unit complex began in September, and was set to open in 2021, The Everett Daily Herald previously reported.

Port of Everett Chief Executive Officer Lisa Lefeber said it will move forward with its original time frame but acknowledged the setback to construction of the project.

“We will continue working with private development partners to keep up momentum,” Lefeber said.