San Rafael Fire Department – PRESS RELEASE
Abraham Roman, Fire Chief
- Incident Commander: Paul Bernard, Battalion Chief.
- Date of Incident: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
- Time of Dispatch: 3:39 p.m.
- Time of Arrival: 3:42 p.m.
- Time of Containment: 4:20 p.m.
- Type of Incident: Structure fire. Confined to building of origin.
- Location of Incident: 1517 Fifth Ave, San Rafael. Between E & F Streets.
- Occupancy Type: three-story wood frame Victorian structure with 5 apartment units.
- Fire Cause: Under investigation.
- Damage Estimate: Unknown currently.
- Injuries: None.
- Units/Resources Assigned at Scene: Second Alarm with mutual aid from Ross Valley Fire Department, Kentfield Fire District, and Central Marin Fire District.
- Assisting Resources: San Rafael Police, San Rafael Building Division, San Rafael Parking Services, and PG&E.
Fire units arrived to find the third floor and roof heavily involved in fire. Crews first ensured that any occupants were safely out of the structure before making an aggressive attack, confining the fire to its area of origin on the third floor. The first and second floors sustained smoke and water damage.
Once the fire was under control, firefighters worked quickly to preserve and protect personal property and furnishings on the lower floors.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported and no neighboring properties were damaged. While no evacuations were required, traffic was heavily disrupted as busy Fifth Avenue in our downtown area was closed between E and G Streets. The closure coincided with the end of the school day at nearby Marin Academy High School, adding to congestion. It appears the structure was being renovated and occupied only by the owner at the time of the fire. There are no other occupants that have been displaced or that need assistance.
This report will be updated as new information becomes available.
PIO: Deputy Fire Chief Robert Sinnott
415-485-5067 office
415-261-7333 cell
robert.sinnott@cityofsanrafael.org
