According to the firefighter, a gaslighting story in San Francisco was on fire today.

San Francisco High-Rise Fire Sparks Safety Concerns I  and Investigations

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, a fire broke out on the 15th-floor balcony of the Metropolitan, a 26-story luxury condominium located at 333 1st Street in downtown San Francisco. The San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) responded promptly, extinguishing the blaze without any injuries or displacements. Notably, the building’s internal smoke alarms did not activate, as the fire was confined to the exterior.

Suspected Cause: Discarded Cigarettes

While the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, SFFD Lieutenant Mariano Elias suggested that improperly discarded cigarette butts might be to blame. Residents have reported frequent littering of smoldering cigarette butts on balconies, particularly from units above. Lt. Elias emphasized the danger of such practices, stating, “Many people think they extinguish a cigarette when they put it out, but they commonly don’t—that’s the worrying part.”

Elevated Fire Risk Conditions

The fire coincided with heightened fire risks in the region. The National Weather Service had issued a red flag warning for areas including Vacaville, Brentwood, and Antioch due to gusty winds and high temperatures. Such conditions increase the likelihood of fires spreading rapidly, underscoring the importance of fire safety precautions.

Community Response and Fire Department Actions

In response to the incident, the SFFD has urged residents to exercise caution, especially during periods of elevated fire risk. The department is actively investigating the cause of the fire and is working with building management to implement measures to prevent future incidents.

This event has sparked discussions about fire safety practices in high-rise buildings and the responsibilities of residents to prevent fire hazards. Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation progresses.

For now, the Metropolitan community remains on alert, with residents and officials alike hoping for swift resolutions and enhanced safety measures moving forward.