05/20/2026
Delayed Post — 3 Alarm Condo Fire
Three days ago at 4:46 p.m., Steele Creek Engine 1, Truck 2, Engine 3, Cars 9, 10, and 11, along with multiple mutual aid departments, responded to a reported structure fire in the Yachtsman Harbor community.
Car 10 arrived and established command of a three-story condo building with smoke showing from the rear. Crews quickly initiated searches and fire attack on a deep-seated fire that originated in the crawlspace and rapidly extended through all three floors and into the attic.
Due to rapid fire growth, extreme heat, and the complexity of the incident, the fire ultimately escalated to 3 alarms with resources responding from across southern Mecklenburg County and northern York County.
After extensive interior operations, crews were removed from the building because of structural integrity concerns. Operations then transitioned to a defensive attack utilizing master streams from Charlotte Fireboat 38, Ladder 26, and Steele Creek Truck 2.
This incident also presented several unique water supply challenges involving a dry hydrant, double drop tank operation, and eventual water supply support from Fireboat 38.
Incidents of this magnitude highlight the importance of teamwork, coordination, and communication between multiple organizations operating together toward a common goal.
We would like to thank the following agencies for their assistance throughout this incident:
West Mecklenburg Fire Department, Riverview Fire Department, Bethel SC Volunteer Fire Department, Charlotte Fire Department, Charlotte NC, Charlotte Fire Communications "Fire Alarm" Clover Fire Department, Fort Mill Fire Department, Flint Hill Fire Department, Indian Land Fire District Mount Holly Fire Department, Mecklenburg EMS Agency - Medic, Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal’s Office, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, and the American Red Cross.
The cause is being investigated by the Mecklenburg County Fire Marshall’s Office. Any inquiries can be directed to them.
