Gov. Jerry Brown Expresses Sadness On Oakland Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — California Gov. Jerry Brown has issued a statement of condolences after a deadly fire in Oakland, Calif. left at least nine people dead.

Brown says in a statement that he and his wife, Anne, were saddened to hear about the deadly blaze.

In the statement Saturday, he said: "Our thoughts are with the entire city in this difficult time and we extend our condolences to the family and friends of those lost."

Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf issued a separate statement calling the fire "an immense tragedy."

Authorities say they fear up to 40 people might have died in the fire at a warehouse converted into artist studios that was hosting an electronic dance party.

Rescue crews were combing through wreckage and still trying to access parts of the warehouse mid-day Saturday.