Knox County, TN (WVLT / WVLT) – A major roadway in North Knox County was temporarily shut down Tuesday afternoon as firefighters worked to extinguish a fire at an abandoned home.
According to Rural Metro Fire, crews responded to a structure fire in the 100 block of West Emory Road shortly before 3:30 p.m. The fire involved an abandoned residence, prompting a significant emergency response.
To safely battle the blaze, firefighters closed West Emory Road to traffic while operating charged fire hoses across the roadway. Charged hoses are filled with water and maintained under pressure, making it dangerous for vehicles to drive over them.
Fire officials urged motorists to avoid the area and not attempt to cross fire hoses while crews were actively working the scene. The temporary closure affected traffic through the busy corridor as firefighters focused on containing the flames and preventing the fire from spreading.
As of Tuesday afternoon, West Emory Road remained closed while crews continued suppression efforts.
Authorities had not reported any injuries by late afternoon, and no information was immediately available regarding the cause of the fire. Officials also did not indicate whether anyone had been inside the structure at the time the fire was reported.
Because the home was abandoned, investigators will likely work to determine how the fire started once the scene is secured and crews complete overhaul operations.
Motorists were encouraged to seek alternate routes until the roadway could be reopened.
What’s Next
Fire investigators are expected to examine the scene after the fire is extinguished to determine the cause and origin of the blaze. Additional details regarding damage estimates and the duration of the road closure may be released as the investigation continues.
