Seven people, including a firefighter, were hurt on Sunday as Durham fire crews worked to rescue people from a massive fire at a Durham apartment complex.
The apartment complex is located off University Drive.
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The fire was reported around 10:50 a.m. The WRAL Breaking News Tracker arrived by 12 p.m. WRAL’s photojournalist said there were at least 11 firetrucks at the scene, calling it “the worst fire” he has ever covered.
Deputy Chief Christopher Iannuzzi spoke to WRAL News at the scene, saying at least one person jumped out of a window to escape the fire. Firefighters worked to rescue others from the building, including one dog.
At 12:15 p.m. there was still heavy smoke, and firefighters were using hoses to try to bring the fire under control. Parts of at least one building were either completely charred or missing with the roof destroyed.
According to the Durham Fire Department, seven people were hurt and five people, including a Durham firefighter, were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Durham EMS are at the scene helping residents, and police were directing traffic.
“We have a lot of the city of Durham here right now,” Iannuzzi said.
Officials said there was so much damage to the building that the investigation has to be delayed until the building is deemed safe to enter.
Wind did not help the fire, and the 90-degree heat made it especially hot for crews. Iannuzzi said firefighters are required to alternate responding to the fire to take breaks, drink water and cool down.
The fire was declared under control after one hour, but Durham firefighters will have to remain on scene for hours.
“It’s a tough day, and they’ve been here for a long time, and they’re going to be here for a lot longer, because there’s a lot of cleanup to do,” Iannuzzi said.
The American Red Cross has been notified, and New Hope and Chapel Hill fire departments are also assisting.
Iannuzzi estimated there were at least 75 firefighters on scene, more than the usual 50.
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