Newest information: Fire at Downtown Raleigh Convention Center. What we have learned

A fire that erupted Monday night at the Raleigh Convention Center in downtown Raleigh has been brought under control, according to city officials, after dense black smoke was seen rising above the area. The incident was first reported at 9:29 p.m. and identified as a natural gas-related fire originating on the buildings roof, Raleigh Public Information Officer Julia Milstead confirmed. The flames were extinguished by 10 p.m., and no injuries have been reported.

Milstead stated that 17 individuals were inside the facility at the time of the fire, all of whom evacuated safely. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, though it occurred near a mechanical platform. The gas supply was subsequently shut off.

Located between South McDowell and South Salisbury streets, the Raleigh Convention Center hosts major conventions and events, such as GalaxyCon Raleigh, the Downtown Raleigh Home Show, and business conferences. There were no events scheduled at the center on Monday night.

Videos captured by witnesses showed flames briefly rising above the roofline. By shortly after 10 p.m., only smoke remained visible. We just saw smoke coming off the roof, said Cate Kimball, an employee at nearby Pooles Diner. The smell of burnt plastic could be detected several blocks away.

Approximately 50 firefighters responded, and by 10:30 p.m., the situation was largely under control. A ladder truck extended above the roof while onlookers gathered on the sidewalks.

Completed in 2008, the convention center spans 500,000 square feet across three levels and was one of Raleighs most expensive projects, costing over $200 million. Its notable Shimmer Wall, a large tree mural by Thomas Sayre illuminated by lights from across the street, remained brightly lit during the fire, initially causing some confusion with the blazes flames.

The center has several events planned in the coming week, including the North Carolina Cybersecurity Summit, a holiday party, cheerleading competitions, and a trade show for the Association Executives of North Carolina. The city is also undertaking a $387.5 million expansion of the facility, which includes relocating Red Hat Amphitheater and adding more event space and meeting rooms.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.

Author: Sophia Brooks