SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Springfield’s mayor is speaking out after crews battled a three-alarm fire at a vacant city hospital.

Firefighters were called to the former Vibra Hospital on State Street late Thursday morning and found fire on the fourth floor. They were able to put the fire out before it had a chance to spread.

Springfield Fire Commissioner BJ Calvi, who had previously called the building a “firefighter” killer, told Western Mass News that it’s believed high schoolers may be to blame for Thursday’s fire.

On Thursday, Sarno spoke out against the property owners and the condition of the property. His full statement appears below:

“Our dedicated Police and Fire Departments continue their investigation of the fire situation at the old Vibra Hospital site on State Street. The private owners of the property are still under court order to properly secure that building and have security on site as well – which I have to question – how good of a job they are they really doing with board and secure measures and a security presence?”

“It also boggles my mind that individuals do not realize that this is a potential death trap for our police and firefighters, and for those individuals who are trespassing and creating this type of arson situation. I hope they are apprehended and the full prosecution comes their way to send a message to the perpetrators that, not only are they putting our public safety responders in harm’s way, but putting themselves in harm’s way too.”

“My administration, through Chief Development Officer Tim Sheehan, continues to work toward hopeful, positive redevelopment of that site. In the meantime, through Building Commissioner Steve Desilets and City Solicitor Steve Buoniconti, as Fire and Police continue their investigation, we will continue to pursue enforcement of board and secure measures and security presence. God forbid anyone is injured, or worse. Individuals, whether young or old, need to realize they are putting themselves and others in danger. Parents, family, guardians please reiterate this message.”

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