DENVER (AP) - A significant fire broke out on Friday evening, affecting a three-story apartment complex that was under construction in southeast Denver. More than 100 firefighters responded to the scene, as the blaze escalated to a three-alarm fire, indicating the intensity and scale of the situation. Robert Murphy, the division chief of operations for the Denver Fire Department, remarked on the severity of the incident, noting that it has been quite some time since a fire of this magnitude occurred in Denver, highlighting its rarity.
The fire began in the early evening and continued to rage for over two hours, with firefighters tirelessly working to extinguish the flames. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries associated with the incident, which is a relief to both responders and the community. However, the building's proximity to a major thoroughfare led to temporary closures in both directions, as issued by the Denver Police Department via their official account on the social media platform X.
Due to the extreme heat radiating from the fire, residents of a nearby apartment building were advised to evacuate for their safety. The situation prompted an immediate response from local authorities, including the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, which reported that the fire resulted in significant power outages in the surrounding area. In response to the crisis, officials have established a temporary overnight shelter at an event center located in Glendale, offering assistance and refuge to those affected by the blaze.
The fire incident not only demonstrates the risks associated with construction sites but also the community's response, as emergency services and local organizations come together to ensure the safety and support of residents. The extent of the damage remains unclear as firefighters continue their efforts to fully extinguish the fire and assess the situation. The focus will now shift to recovery and understanding the cause of the fire as investigations are likely to commence once it is deemed safe to do so.
This event sheds light on the persistent dangers of large-scale fires in urban environments, particularly within developments that are still under construction. Fire officials and city planners may need to evaluate existing safety protocols in place to mitigate the risks associated with such incidents in the future. The firefighting efforts exemplify the bravery and dedication of the personnel involved, as they work tirelessly amid hazardous conditions to protect lives and property.
