Fire at Denver tortillería sends up black smoke over Santa Fe Drive
Natanael Chavez, an employee there, told Denverite the 14-or-so people inside evacuated safely.
Denver firefighters work on an incident in Tortillas Mexico on 11th Avenue at Santa Fe Drive, May 10, 2018. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
By Kevin J. Beaty and Ashley Dean
A fire broke out Tuesday evening at Tortilla Mexico, a local, family-owned tortillería on 11th Avenue just off Santa Fe Drive.
As firefighters worked to put out the two-alarm blaze that sent up a large black cloud of smoke over the highly trafficked area at rush hour, Natanael Chavez, an employee there, told Denverite the 14-or-so people inside evacuated safely.
One person was taken to a hospital with moderate injuries, according to the Denver Fire Department.
One of the boilers exploded, he said, and within just a few minutes the building at 840 W. 11th Ave. was on fire.
“I tried to do something to stop the fire,” he said, “but what could I do?”
Natanael Chavez, an employee, speaks to press.
This was the second fire in Denver on Tuesday. Around 2 a.m., two under-construction buildings just off Federal Boulevard were destroyed in a three- alarm fire. No one was hurt.
Denver firefighters work on an incident at Tortillas Mexico. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
Tortillas Mexico employees watch as Denver firefighters put out the fire. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
Bystanders watch from across the street. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
Tortillas Mexico employees watch as Denver firefighters prepare to enter the building. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
A Denver firefighter watches the scene after spraying the building from above. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
Denver firefighters connect hoses to a fire hydrant. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
Santa Fe Drive was shut down after Tortillas Mexico broke out in flames. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)
This story will be updated as we learn more.
Here’s why Denverites say they haven’t voted yet
Nearly 88% of registered voters haven't turned in a ballot, and older Denverites look like they'll be determining the future of the city.
The parking garage next to Tattered Cover, Twist & Shout and above The Sie FilmCenter is no longer free
Customers and employees of the businesses in the complex will receive free parking through a ticket validation system.
Small fire near Cherry Creek State Park in Aurora has been contained
A small brush fire near Chambers and Parker roads forced a handful of homes to be evacuated.
Big out-of-state money is flowing to support Mike Johnston again
It didn't work in races for governor or U.S. Senate, but the super PAC backing him has already collected $1.8 million.
Denver Street Sweeping returns on Election Day
It's that time of year the streets get a little cleaner and drivers get more $50 tickets.
Who do developers want to be Denver’s next mayor? Here’s what public data shows
The industry has given to several mayoral and city council candidates, but developers' contributions to one mayoral candidate stand out.
Things to do in Denver this weekend, March 31-April 2
Russell Square Park reopens and more!
Words to Power’s Open Mic gives teens a space to air it out and be heard for a change
"The youth are speaking but people are not listening."
You can take your boat out on Cherry Creek Reservoir starting Saturday
All you need to know about getting out on the water.
Dazzle’s new location will feature artwork from local artists preserving the history of Colorado Jazz
The delay in opening has opened up opportunities for local partnerships led by Owner and President, Donald Rossa.
What we know about the decision to reintroduce armed officers to DPS schools
What the Denver Public School board's decision from last week does and the schools where parents and students can expect to see police.
Service disruptions could be coming to an RTD line near you
Maintenance will affect the E, H and R lines, along with separate L line disruptions until October.
DU gymnastics’ scores are up and the program is breaking records just in time to host NCAA regionals this weekend
It's the first step on the road to a national championship.
Park Hill Golf Course’s future reimagined — by sixth graders
The kids were much better behaved than some adults as they discussed what they believe could be done with the 155-acre plot of land.
West Denver neighborhoods will be shaped for the next 20 years by the area plan City Council approved this week
The plan encompasses Barnum, Barnum West, Sun Valley, Valverde, Villa Park and West Colfax.
What Denver mayoral candidates on the ballot say about safety in Denver Public Schools and youth violence
Parents and students called for more gun safety laws and security measures liked armed officers in schools in the aftermath of the East High School shooting.
What happens if candidates in the mayoral and city council races fail to get more than 50% of the vote?
In a crowded field with no frontrunner, getting above 50% would be an impressive feat.
Denver’s municipal election turnout has long been pretty bad. Maybe things will be better this year?
Do you have a good strategy to get your friends interested in democracy?
Candidates in the at-large city council race have received racist, homophobic harassment
One filed a police report after receiving over a dozen hateful letters in the mail.
Another round of the very popular e-bike rebates will be available Tuesday
Denverite's claimed almost 900 rebates last time in less than half an hour.