On the scene as the West Street fire broke out

By By ANDREW DONOVAN

Story Created: Jul 2, 2008 at 10:09 PM EST

Story Updated: Jul 3, 2008 at 9:15 AM EST

UTICA - A fire was under control shortly after breaking out at 1015 West Street, also known as the former Utica Park West Regency Apartments. According to Fire Chief Russell Brooks calls came in about a reported explosion and flames and smoke could be seen around 10:15 p.m. Wednesday evening.

The old apartment building is a three story vacant brick building and the apartments are currently unoccupied. The fire began on the second floor and then spread to the top floor but was quickly controlled by the Utica Fire Department

Other agencies on the scene included the Utica Arson Task Force and National Grid.

There were reports that there was criminal activity taking place within the building. It was an unoccupied building meaning tenants had left but criminals had moved in. Neighbors indicated that people were coming and going throughout the day. Chief Brooks said that crime, drugs, prostitution are all connected.

It is confirmed that there is no power running to the building because it was up for sale. Firefighters are currently investigating the building while trying to establish the people responsible for the criminal activity.

***Click the VIDEO link for the phone interview with NEWSChannel 2's Pat Bailey LIVE at the scene Wednesday night.
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

What's On