CLIFTON PARK, NY - On March 31, 2026, at 6:52 PM, the Clifton Park Fire Department, along with mutual aid from the Hillcrest Fire Department, Halfmoon-Waterford Fire Department, Vischer Ferry Fire Department, Mechanicville Fire Department, and Jonesville Fire Department, responded to 1 Freeman Lane for a reported working structure fire called in by a fire chief.

The fire chief reported a well-involved commercial garage with two vehicles inside, with heavy fire shooting over 40 feet into the air despite heavy rain at the scene. Heavy black smoke was visible from over a mile away. During heavy evening traffic on Route 146, vehicles slowed as they approached the scene, as drivers became distracted by the large column of smoke and visible fire.

The first-arriving unit immediately deployed a three-quarter handline from the front of the apparatus and began an aggressive knockdown of the heavy fire conditions in the garage. The chief on scene, with limited manpower, transmitted a second alarm, bringing additional resources to the incident.

Firefighters quickly arrived behind the first-due engine and established a water supply. With heavy fire still inside the garage and the roof having collapsed, firefighters continued aggressive efforts to bring the incident under control.

Firefighters encountered significant challenges gaining access due to a vehicle fuel tank that had been breached, resulting in a free-flowing fuel fire. Crews continued to attack the fire in both vehicles and knock down remaining fire from the exterior of the structure.

As operations continued, severe storms moved through the area, bringing lightning and heavy rain. Once the power to the building was secured, firefighters were able to fully extinguish the remaining fire. Crews then conducted extensive overhaul of the heavily damaged garage.

Firefighters remained on scene for an extended period. No injuries were reported. The Saratoga County Fire Investigators arrived on scene and began working to determine the cause of the fire; however, no cause has been released at this time. Firefighters returned to service later that evening.