Massive Warehouse Fire Near Tracks in DC Causes Metro Delays

Metro Red Line service was suspended between the Fort Totten and Silver Spring stations

Service on Metro's Red Line has resumed Thursday morning after a massive building fire nearby suspended service in one area for hours Wednesday night.

Firefighters worked to battle the fire at a building at 6500 Chillum Place NW, for hours Wednesday night, and were still working to contain the fire early Thursday, D.C. Fire and EMS said. 

Regular Metro service resumed as of 6:20 a.m. Thursday, but a few hours later, trains began single-tracking between the Silver Spring and Fort Totten stations. Metro said trains shared a track at the request of D.C. Fire and EMS.

Regular service resumed again Thursday evening. 

Riders should set aside some extra time for their commutes. Metro says crowding conditions are possible. 

The structure is located several blocks southeast of the Takoma Metro station.

Part of the building's roof eventually collapsed, and massive flames could be seen shooting out of the gaping hole. Dozens of cars were parked on the building's rooftop parking deck and it appeared that some of them had fallen through or were on the brink of falling.

Earlier Wednesday, video from Chopper4 showed thick white plumes of smoke pouring out of the building. The roof started to buckle and smoke steamed out of cracks forming in the cement.

The fire department warned that if the building collapsed, it could affect the Metro and CSX rail lines that are behind it. CSX trains were traveling at a slower speed.

Metro service was suspended Wednesday night between the Fort Totten and Silver Spring stations. 

One firefighter was taken to a hospital with minor injuries, the fire department said on Twitter.

Real estate developing company District Properties has offices at the building, according to the company's website.

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