(Image source from: CBC.ca)

Rescue operations began as fire shed on Wednesday, spread to a Phoenix strip mall, eventually threatening nearby residents and their homes, officials said.

The fire began shortly after noon in a shed behind shops at 32nd and Oak streets, just north of Loop 202, Phoenix Fire Capt. Rob McDade said.

More than 45 firefighters battled the flames, fully extinguishing the fire after 3 p.m., he said.

One firefighter suffered heat exhaustion and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he is in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery, McDade said Wednesday afternoon.

According to McDade, the shed fire quickly expanded into the attic of the complex that includes a smoke shop, a barber shop and other businesses.

Firefighters quickly cleared people from the shops and no injuries were reported, McDade said. Residents in the surrounding area were evacuated as well, he said.

Oak and 32nd streets were partially closed, which McDade expected to continue well into rush hour.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Lokesh