A two-alarm fire at the USF Marine Science Laboratory on May 2 has left the building likely a total loss. The blaze raises serious concerns regarding the future of research and classes in the facility.
The St. Petersburg Fire District responded to the incident after a civilian reported smoke and flames at 5:39 p.m. More than 60 units and 200 firefighters tackled the fire, which was confined to the laboratory itself.
No injuries were reported, and all employees are accounted for. Firefighters confirmed they are monitoring air quality due to hazardous materials present on site.
Michael Lewis, a spokesperson for Pinellas County Safety and Emergency Services, stated, “Basically, the entire attic was involved.” As of midday, crews are still working to extinguish hot spots.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but officials have not disclosed any details yet. The laboratory housed advanced chemistry, biology, and oceanography labs essential for marine science research.
The building dates back to around 1940 and previously served as a dormitory before becoming part of the USF Marine Science research campus during expansions in the 1990s and 2000s.
Lewis added, “This is going to be a very extensive process to go through, confirm that there is no active fire impinging upon any of the hazardous materials.” However, he noted that air monitoring confirmed no immediate concerns for the USF campus.
Students like Lydia Shaw expressed anxiety about their upcoming classes, saying, “I’m personally terrified because I have classes in that building in the fall.” The situation remains fluid as investigators continue their work.
