BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Federal and local authorities have confirmed an arrest in connection with the devastating Southside fire that destroyed multiple buildings and displaced nearly 20 Birmingham residents late last week.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced Monday that Joshua Mitchell, 42, was taken into custody and booked into the Jefferson County Jail on November 1. The arrest comes after days of investigation into the blaze that tore through one of Birmingham’s most historic neighborhoods.
Charges Filed and Upcoming Court Hearing
According to the Birmingham Police Department, Mitchell faces multiple charges, including arson, criminal trespassing, breaking and entering a vehicle, and possession of a controlled substance.
Court records show that Mitchell will be represented by a public defender, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for December 2 at 10 a.m. before the Jefferson County Court.
Authorities have not yet released a motive for the alleged arson.
How the Fire Started
Fire officials say crews were dispatched around 5:30 a.m. to a vacant structure on 20th Street South, which quickly became fully engulfed in flames. The fire then spread to three nearby apartment and condominium buildings, consuming all four structures in a matter of hours.
The initial building, a former home later converted into a business, collapsed as the roof gave way. Firefighters from multiple stations responded, battling intense flames and toxic smoke for several hours.
“It’s heartbreaking to see such historic buildings lost, but we’re grateful no lives were taken,” said a Birmingham Fire and Rescue official.
Thousands of gallons of water were used to extinguish the blaze. Power was shut off in the affected area during the firefight but has since been restored to nearby buildings.
Extent of the Damage
The Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the primary building was a total loss, while the other three structures sustained severe damage and are “likely total losses” pending final inspection.
For public safety, 20th Street South between 13th & 14th Avenue and Cobb Lane remain closed to traffic.
Displaced Residents and Red Cross Response
Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, but 19 people were displaced as a result of the fire. The American Red Cross immediately stepped in to assist, providing temporary shelter, financial support, and mental health services to affected families.
Each displaced resident has been assigned a caseworker to help with long-term recovery and housing needs over the coming months.
City Leaders Praise First Responders
Councilor Crystal Smitherman and city officials released a joint statement Friday morning, expressing gratitude to first responders and reaffirming support for residents and businesses impacted by the disaster.
“We saw the massive plume of smoke early this morning coming from Southside. First, we’d like to thank the Birmingham Fire Department for their quick action and efforts to prevent the spread of this fire,” the statement read. “As of this moment, we do not believe anyone was injured in this fire, and that is a blessing and a testament to our first responders.”
City leaders also emphasized their commitment to restoring Cobb Lane, one of Birmingham’s most historic cobblestone streets, and helping residents rebuild in the aftermath.
Investigation Continues
The ATF and Birmingham Fire and Rescue investigators remain on the case to determine the exact cause of the fire and whether other individuals may have been involved.
As the investigation unfolds, city officials encourage residents to stay informed and report any additional information that may assist in the inquiry.
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