UPDATE Thursday 6/28 – Vons has reopened.
Shoppers were evacuated this morning from Vons on Orange Avenue after a fire associated with a refrigeration unit in the basement caused heavy smoke to fill the grocery store, and the sprinklers to be activated.
Coronado and San Diego firefighters responded to the initial call at 8:19 a.m. of an explosion in an alley behind the store, most likely from a nearby transformer, and put out the fire while getting everyone out safely and securing the perimeter. There were no injuries.
“Right now, we aren’t sure if the transformer or the refrigeration unit caused the fire,” said Fire Chief Jim Lydon. “SDG&E has secured the power to the building. There is standing water in the basement so that will be removed by Vons.”
SDG&E crews turned the power off in the store and are investigating the incident. Vons remains closed due to heavy smoke and water damage, and no power. Vons was sending crews to assess the damage and possible repairs to get the store reopened.
Lydon said county health officials are expected to arrive to assess the smoke and water damage.
Source: City of Coronado
