Moody Music Building catches fire
April 19, 2020
See updates at the end of the story.
The Moody Music Building at The University of Alabama caught fire during a thunderstorm late Sunday afternoon, with the cause and extent of the damage not yet known.
“The Tuscaloosa Fire Department and UAPD responded to a report of smoke from the roof of Moody Music Building around 4:15 Sunday, April 19,” a University spokesperson said Sunday evening. “No injuries were reported. Responders are still on scene, and a cause has not yet been determined.”
The Crimson White has reached out to TPD, UAPD, and The Tuscaloosa Fire Department for confirmation as what has occurred. This story will be updated with any response.
UPDATE (8:26 p.m.) — Mayor Walt Maddox tweeted a short update saying most of the Million Dollar Band’s uniforms and instruments have been saved. There is no update about the cause of the fire yet. Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue is still fighting through heavy rain to put it out.
UPDATE (Monday, 1:23 p.m.) – The fire was contained overnight, but the cause of the blaze and extent of the damage is still unknown, UA officials told The Crimson White on Monday morning.
“The University of Alabama is grateful for the quick and effective actions of the Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue Service, the UA Police Department and UA facilities staff in response to a fire that began Sunday at Moody Music Building,” a press release stated. “Crews worked tirelessly to contain the fire on the roof of the building despite hazardous weather conditions.”
The State Fire Marshall will conduct a thorough damage assessment in the coming days.
“Because the fire was in the roofing system, it is likely there is significant smoke and water damage,” the release stated.
UPDATE (Tuesday, 3:11 p.m.) – The state fire marshal has determined the blaze was caused by lightning, according to a UA News release. While the fire remained in the roofing system, there was significant smoke and water damage. University officials are still working to determine the extent of the damage.