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Mayor: Raleigh Convention Center sprinklers activated; events being relocated
Summary
Mayor gave an initial update after a fire at the Raleigh Convention Center: sprinklers activated, limited water damage to kitchens and perishables, the "shimmer wall" artist said the artwork—s structure appears sound, and some events including a cybersecurity conference are seeking alternate venues. Inspections and fuller statements are expected this afternoon.
Mayor provided a brief, high-level update after a fire at the Raleigh Convention Center late the previous night, saying the building—s sprinkler system activated and that the initial damage appears concentrated to kitchen areas and perishable goods. "The sprinklers were set off in the building, so there has been some damage where sprinklers, you know, damage, some of the kitchens and sort of perishable goods," the mayor said.
The mayor said the city had contacted Thomas Sayer, the artist who created the center—s "shimmer wall," and reported that the wall—s structural integrity "looks like that structural integrity is good." The mayor emphasized that more detailed information and formal statements from the city manager—s office and other city staff would be released later in the day after inspections are complete.
City staff said some scheduled events are seeking alternative venues. Officials specifically noted that a cybersecurity conference slated to begin the next day was making arrangements to relocate. The mayor thanked the Raleigh Fire Department, convention center staff and mutual aid partners for a large coordinated response and said there were no reported injuries.
Council did not take any formal action on the floor about the incident during the meeting; staff said fuller damage assessments and official statements would follow once inspections are complete.
The council asked for an update later in the afternoon and encouraged residents and event attendees to follow official city communications for venue and ticketing updates.
