A historic former YMCA building in Stockton is expected to be demolished after a three-alarm fire ravaged the structure early Wednesday morning. Firefighters responded to the blaze at around 3:50 a.m. at the vacant building located near North Center Street and East Park Street, where flames had already consumed much of the roof.
The building, which had been undergoing remodeling, was known to house squatters, according to Stockton Firefighters Local 456. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Once a symbol of community service, the building had not been owned by the YMCA of San Joaquin County since 1996, but YMCA leaders expressed deep sadness. "This building stood as a symbol of our commitment to Stockton," said Dan Chapman, CEO of YMCA of San Joaquin County. "We mourn the loss of this significant chapter in our history."
The structure, which had previously endured a five-alarm fire in 2019, had raised concerns among local residents as a safety hazard. Nearby, the Cesar Chavez Library was temporarily closed during the firefighting efforts but will reopen Thursday. City officials will assess the building to determine its next steps, with demolition appearing to be the most likely outcome.