TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa Fire Rescue (TFR) battled a two‑alarm structure fire on West Kennedy Boulevard Wednesday night after crews found heavy smoke and flames coming from the front porch of a vacant building.
WATCH: Tampa Fire Rescue battled 2-alarm fire on West Kennedy Boulevard
Firefighters said units responded at 7:18 p.m. to the 100 block of South Westland Avenue and called a second alarm because of the fire’s intensity and multiple exposures.
Crews evacuated a nearby Circle K fuel station and an adjacent apartment building as a precaution while firefighters worked to contain the blaze, which was brought under control within about 30 minutes.
WATCH: Video from Tampa Fire Rescue
Northbound and southbound lanes of West Kennedy between South Howard and South Albany avenues were closed during that time. A primary and secondary search found no occupants in the structure, TFR said.

There were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters.
This is an ongoing investigation by the Tampa Fire Marshal's Office.


'What’s the point?' Nearly 90% of drivers who appeal school bus camera tickets lose
FL’s controversial school bus cameras are fueling new frustrations for drivers who believe the appeals process is one-sided. Investigative Reporter Katie LaGrone continues her coverage.