Richmond's The Fairway at Bellevue apartment complex became a scene of devastation Thursday night, after a fire broke out, destroying 20 of its units and displacing more than 40 residents. Flames and heavy smoke billowed from the two-story building as the Richmond Fire Department, accompanied by several neighboring departments, responded to the emergency at 1111 Golfview Drive near FM 762, as reported by FOX 26 Houston.
Residents recounted the chaos, with one, Jesus Vazquez saying, "In 10 minutes, two of the units were already burning," according to his interview with FOX 26 Houston. Another resident, who received news of the fire via a text message during a concert, detailed the moment he arrived at the scene: "When we pulled up, everything was just orange, everything was just engulfed, and was just up in flames," Josh Dietrich said.
Facing the sudden loss of their homes, many residents are now tasked with piecing back together their lives. Some have found solace in the community's response, with Dietrich noting, "Really, the big thing though is the community that we have. It sucks that it takes something like this to happen, but it really shows how much people come together when you need them," in words obtained by FOX 26 Houston. The local Red Cross has stepped in to provide support services for those affected.
Amid this trying time, residents like Carol, expressed feeling upended, telling ABC13, "I didn't go to sleep last night - thinking about everything that's in there that I need to get out." Joshua Calvert, a resident who witnessed a "loud boom" and an "orange fireball" from his window, reported minimal damage to his unit but, like many others, is uncertain when he might return home.
The cause of the fire is still unknown as investigations continue, according to officials. Meanwhile, the Fairview at Bellevue Apartments have requested community donations for the displaced residents. The fire department's call to action includes a request for essentials such as water, food, clothing, and toiletries, which can be delivered to the leasing office of the affected apartments, as FOX 26 Houston reports. Further details will be shared as the fire department's investigation into the blaze progresses.
