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3d ago

ATF Team Joins Probe of Denver’s 5-Alarm Apartment Fire as Site Still Smolders

Federal investigators have joined the case to bolster a complex, debris-limited search.

Firefighters continue to work the scene of an overnight construction site fire on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, on Leetsdale Drive, between South Forest Street and South Hudson Street in Denver. (Photo by Timothy Hurst/The Denver Post)
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Firefighters spray down the east side of an apartment complex that was under construction as they and others continue to work the scene of an overnight structure fire on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, on Leetsdale Drive, between South Forest Street and South Hudson Street in Denver. (Photo by Timothy Hurst/The Denver Post)
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Overview

  • The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives deployed its national response team Tuesday to assist Denver Fire in determining the cause.
  • Search dogs have not found evidence of human remains, and officials say no missing persons have been reported in connection with the blaze.
  • Flames continue to burn beneath collapsed debris at the Harker Heights construction site, preventing safe entry and delaying a full investigation.
  • Investigators are reviewing surveillance video and witness accounts while evaluating multiple possible causes, including fireworks, a person inside, or construction activity.
  • Traffic restrictions remain on Leetsdale Drive and nearby businesses report ongoing disruptions, as officials say excavation and possible demolition will be needed to reach hidden hot spots.