On Friday evening at San Diego Comic-Con, The Penguin immersive experience was evacuated due to a fire that broke out in a nearby building. The event was taking place at the Bloom Nightclub, and attendees were seen being directed outside to the street as emergency services responded. Numerous firetrucks and law enforcement officials arrived on the scene to manage the situation.
The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department reported that the fire, which began at a steakhouse located at 939 4th Ave, was not large but took some time to control. The blaze extended into residential units and adjacent buildings, though there have been no reported injuries. Firefighters were able to contain the flames without significant damage to the Penguin event itself.
The Penguin fan event, a multi-level installation celebrating HBO’s upcoming series starring Colin Farrell, had recreated Gotham’s iconic Iceberg Lounge from “The Batman.” This immersive experience featured special effects, interactive elements, and exclusive content designed to engage fans and promote the new series set to premiere in September.
The evacuation occurred less than a day before HBO’s major Hall H panel, which was scheduled to highlight the series. Pia Barlow, HBO’s executive vice president of original marketing, had previously expressed excitement about showcasing the show’s immersive elements and engaging the passionate fanbase in San Diego.
Despite the disruption, the Penguin fan event has since reopened. HBO has been contacted for additional comments, and updates from the San Diego Fire Rescue Department were provided early the following morning to offer more details on the incident.
