Roof collapses as heavy fire rips through building in New Bedford

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — A heavy fire ripped through an apartment building in New Bedford on Friday morning.

Flames were still visible from inside the County Street building when the roof collapsed.

Fire officials told an ABC 6 News crew on scene that the building is home to Tony’s Café & Bar and four apartments.

A heavy fire breaks out at a building on County Street in New Bedford, Friday, Sept. 1, 2023. (WLNE)

Three people were safely evacuated from the apartments when the fire broke out around 6:30 a.m.

Two firefighters had minor injuries.

It was unclear if the fire began in the business or in one of the apartments.

Smoke billowed from the building for hours. Fire officials said it’s possible the whole structure may collapse.

Officials said some bus stops on County Street and Rockdale Avenue will not be accessible amid the emergency response.