BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Birmingham firefighters are battling a fire at the former Ramada Inn in the 300 block of 10th Street North.

Heavy black smoke drifted across I-65 which is less than a block away.

The fire was reported about 8 p.m.

The multistory building was at one time a Ramada Inn. It has been abandoned for several years. There have several arson fires at the building in the past. A police officer on the scene said arson is suspected again.

AL.com will provide updates when more information is available.