Huge Fire Erupts at Abandoned Grocery Store formally known as “Cooks” in Brawley; Cause still Under Investigation

Old abandoned grocery store formerly known as "Cooks" fully engulfed in flame and to the left is a picture of firefighters extinguishing the fire from above

Old abandoned grocery store formerly known as "Cooks" fully engulfed in flame

To the center is a firefighter unscrewing a nozzle and to the right is a bystander trying to help the firefighter

Firefighter covering hose towards fire hydrant

Firefighters extinguishing fire from above with ladder

Firefighters trying to extinguish the fire before it gets big, picture taken before roof collapsed

Pictures so smoke being visible all the way from the east side of Brawley on Highway 111 near Brawley

Brawley, CA - June 17, 2024 – A massive fire engulfed and destroyed a historic building in Brawley on Monday evening. The blaze, which erupted at the old Cooks Market located at 395 West E Street, was first reported just before 6:00 p.m. The Brawley Fire Department responded quickly, and the severity of the situation led to a second alarm being issued almost immediately upon their arrival. Just minutes later, a third alarm was called, signaling the need for extensive resources and personnel.

The fire drew mutual aid from nearly every fire department in Imperial Valley, with firefighters from Calipatria, Holtville, and Brawley, among others, converging on the scene. Crews battled the wind-aided flames with both ground units and aerial firefighters using ladders to tackle the inferno from above. The fire was largely contained by 7:30 p.m., though fire personnel remained on-site late into the evening to ensure the flames were completely extinguished and to prevent any flare-ups.

Witnesses described seeing smoke from various vantage points across Brawley and even from Imperial, as northeast winds pushed the smoke towards the east side of the city. Approximately 40 onlookers gathered near the site, watching as firefighters worked tirelessly to control the blaze.

An officer at the scene reported no injuries among civilians or fire personnel, though this information has not yet been confirmed by the Brawley Fire Department. The officer also noted that this incident follows a smaller fire at the same location a few months ago, which had been quickly controlled.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown, and the Brawley Fire Department has urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward by contacting them at 760-344-1234.

Additionally, a witness who wishes to stay anonymous stated “There was 3 guys and 1 lady who ran out of there when the fire started” he also mentioned that they appear to be homeless, although this information cannot be confirmed by any official sources

As of now, the scene is under investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available stay tuned to 760 news media.