Massive fire engulfs abandoned motel near Universal's Endless Summer Resort

ORLANDO, Fla. - A two-story abandoned motel near Universal's Endless Summer Resort was engulfed in flames on Saturday, marking yet another blaze at the property.

According to witnesses, the fire was significant, reminiscent of a previous incident in February when firefighters battled flames at the exact same location.

"It just doesn’t make sense to me," said Klarrisa, who works across the street from the motel.

Around 6:15 a.m., firefighters arrived at S. Kirkman Road and found a fire that had extended to about a quarter of a building at the old I-Drive Grand Resort & Suites, firefighters said. 

One person was injured in this recent fire. According to reports, similar incidents occurred in December 2022.

Concerns about the property's safety have been raised, mainly as it attracts transient individuals.

Records from Orange County property indicate that the motel is owned by Orlando Views LLC, which filed for bankruptcy in October 2023.

Steven Silverman, a commercial real estate attorney, explained that demolishing the building might not be straightforward due to financial constraints faced by the owner.

"It’s expensive...whoever owns the building has to have the cash and ability to take down the building," Silverman stated.

Efforts to obtain a comment from the City of Orlando regarding potential intervention to demolish the structure have been unsuccessful. However, Silverman noted that the city can condemn the property if deemed unsafe.