Firefighters Remove Ceiling to Extinguish Selma Area Blaze

Fresno County fire crews, working under local Cal Fire assignment, tackled a significant structure fire the morning of November 12 that broke out north of Selma near Manning and Indianola avenues. On arrival, firefighters found heavy flame involvement at the rear of the building and discovered that the fire had extended into the attic. To reach all active fire and fully extinguish the blaze, crews removed a large portion of the ceiling and attic materials. Officials confirmed there were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters.

The operation required methodical access to concealed spaces and careful overhaul work to ensure all hot spots were extinguished. Cal Fire and county investigators remained at the scene gathering information following the incident, and investigators had not determined a cause at the time of the report. The presence of investigators on site means residents may see ongoing activity as officials process evidence and interview witnesses.

For people living and working in Fresno County the immediate implications are practical and tangible. The incident highlights how fire in concealed building areas such as attics can spread unseen, and it underscores why smoke alarms, clear evacuation plans, and prompt reporting of suspicious smoke or flames are essential. Neighbors near Manning and Indianola avenues experienced emergency vehicle traffic and the disruption that accompanies any structure fire, and community members reliant on nearby roadways may have encountered short term delays while crews worked.

This response also reflects the routine coordination between county fire resources and Cal Fire personnel, a relationship that is central to emergency preparedness in the Central Valley. In recent years authorities across California and beyond have faced more frequent and intense fire challenges, and local departments continue to adapt tactics and training to address structural and wildland interface risks. The removal of ceiling and attic materials at this scene illustrates one such tactical adjustment when fire becomes hidden within a building.

Investigators will continue to collect information before releasing findings about cause and origin. Residents seeking updates can follow official Fresno County Fire releases and local media coverage for information about any sheltering needs, road impacts, or safety advisories. The episode is a reminder of the community value of preparedness and the importance of swift, coordinated emergency response when a fire threatens homes and neighborhoods.