Historic Detroit Building Evacuated Due to Fire

No injuries reported as crews contain blaze on 11th floor of Maccabees Building owned by Wayne State University

Apr. 2, 2026 at 7:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fire broke out on Wednesday in the historic Maccabees Building in Detroit, prompting the evacuation of the 14-story building owned by Wayne State University. The fire, which likely started in the heating and cooling system, was contained and no injuries were reported. The Maccabees Building, designed by architect Albert Kahn, has housed early radio and TV studios, including the broadcasts of "The Lone Ranger" starting in the 1930s.

Why it matters

The Maccabees Building is a significant landmark in Detroit's history, serving as a hub for early radio and television production. Its evacuation due to a fire raises concerns about the preservation of historic structures and the safety of occupants in aging buildings.

The details

Thick black smoke was seen billowing from the top of the Maccabees Building, which is located just north of downtown Detroit. Wayne State University, which has owned the building for over 20 years and houses several of its departments there, reported that the fire was contained on the 11th floor. Authorities believe the fire likely started in the building's heating and cooling system.

  • The fire broke out on Wednesday, April 2, 2026.

The players

Wayne State University

The owner of the historic Maccabees Building in Detroit, which houses several of the university's departments, including the Computer Science Department and African American Studies.

Albert Kahn

The architect who designed the nearly century-old Maccabees Building in Detroit.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of maintaining and preserving historic structures, as well as the need for robust fire safety protocols in aging buildings. The evacuation of the Maccabees Building, a landmark in Detroit's history, serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by cities in balancing progress and preservation.