Lewiston, ME - Lewiston Fire Department units responded to Libby Avenue in Lewiston, Maine, for a reported structure fire and arrived to find smoke issuing from the building with visible fire conditions inside.

On 31 August 2026, crews initiated a rapid interior attack shortly after arrival, stretching handlines into the structure while simultaneously beginning a primary search for any possible occupants.

Firefighters operated in extremely low visibility conditions with heavy smoke and intense heat, requiring coordinated movement and continuous communication to advance toward the seat of the fire.

Despite the challenging interior environment, crews were able to gain control of the fire and prevent it from extending further into uninvolved portions of the structure. Overhaul operations were completed once the main body of fire was knocked down, ensuring no hidden extension remained.

The fire was later determined to be suspicious in nature and remains under active investigation by the Lewiston Fire Prevention Division, the Lewiston Maine Police Department, and the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office.