Audio from Erie County Fire Wire.

At 01:32 hrs on 08/04/2021 Buffalo Fire on the 2nd Platoon was dispatched on a Preliminary Signal at Metcalfe and Clinton to investigate something burning. Engine 32 arrived on location reporting heavy fire on a loading dock and requested the balance of the box and second alarms. B-43 arrived on location and reported a large 4 story non-combustible heavy fire on the 4 side all hands would work. At 01:44 hrs B-56 reported they are going defensive. B-56 updated dispatch that the building is a 3 story with one tower ladder and turret in operation with fire on the 3rd floor and a garage exposure going. Tones went out to report a hazard for a potential collapse on all sides of the structure. At 01:57 hrs Command requested the 3rd alarm. Multiple companies were called in to assist the companies on location with hose pick and call backs were in the making due to the extent of resources needed throughout the night on location. Also sufficient hydrant locations slowed down the progress of feeding the aerials due to the distance.
Rundown:
12 Metcalfe was a 3 story heavy timber approx. 300’ x 750’ fire started in the rear loading dock and extended throughout used 5 tower ladders 2 blitz fires, 2 turrets, 1 deck guns, and multiple handlines. Damages 500k to the building 0 to the contents, One exposure on the 4 side a 100’ x 50’ damages listed at 200k to structure, 100k to the contents. Cause is suspected malfeasance. Emergency demolition to be ordered.
Companies on location

Engine 32, 3, 35, 25, 1, 22, 28, 21, 2
Ladder 5, 15, 10, 6, 2, 14, 4 FAST, Rescue 1
Chiefs B-43, B-44, B-46, B-42, B-56
Support Staff F-9, F-10, F-11, F-20, F-39, F-40, F-76