A significant fire broke out early on December 23, 2024, at a mixed commercial and residential building on Stratford Road in Sparkhill, Birmingham.

Witnesses suggested that the blaze may have been sparked by a car that was set on fire and then rammed into the supermarket, with a Land Rover observed in flames at the scene.

Emergency services, including ten fire engines and around 55 firefighters, responded shortly before 4:55 AM to combat the blaze, which spread from the front of the retail store to nearby flats.

Heavy smoke was observed billowing from the windows and doors of the affected buildings, prompting firefighters to enter wearing breathing apparatus to search for potential casualties.

Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, and five residents who evacuated the flats above the store were checked by paramedics with no injuries found.

By mid-morning, the fire had been brought under control, although fire crews continued to work on-site to prevent further spread and monitor the situation.

The fire spread to shop signage and the bay windows of flats above the store, leading to road closures in the area.

Stratford Road was closed in both directions between Formans Road and Nansen Road as police and fire crews managed the incident.

The incident has caused road closures and travel disruptions in the vicinity, with bus company NX West Midlands announcing diversions for their services.

Photos from the scene showed that the car was severely burned and distorted from the fire, with significant damage to the bay windows above the shop.

Local property developer Isaac Zintaan described hearing a 'loud explosion' and noted that residents reported the sound as 'like a bomb went off.'

The West Midlands Fire Service confirmed that multiple crews are attending to the fire and advised the public to avoid the area if possible.