A fire in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood has displaced 40 people after tearing through an apartment complex on Saturday afternoon. The Seattle Fire Department took to X detailing that the blaze started around 4:40 p.m. near West Prospect Street and Queen Anne Avenue North. According to a KOMO News report, firefighters responded promptly and had the flames under control by approximately 4:50 p.m. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Local residents witnessed the fire's impact firsthand. Jennifer Dent recounted to KIRO 7, "I could smell the smoke as I was walking up in this direction." The fire, which started in a first-floor unit, spread rapidly and damaged a total of 22 apartments. For some, displacement is more than a temporary inconvenience. Betsy Robertson from the American Red Cross mentioned that residents may be unable to return for months.
The aftermath of the Queen Anne blaze has rallied the American Red Cross into action as they assist those affected by the fire. They are set to provide financial aid and aid these individuals in acquiring necessary resources during this difficult period. "Is it replacing clothes? Is it replacing other items? Is it securing a security deposit for another place to go and live?" Robertson posited in a statement obtained by KIRO 7.
The exact cause of the blaze at Queen Anne has yet to be determined and remains under investigation, but its effects are clear. A resident, who preferred to remain off-camera, described the situation to KIRO 7 as "truly a heartbreaking." The path to recovery for those displaced will be filled with challenges as they navigate finding new living arrangements and replacing what was lost. Meanwhile, the community is offering support as residents begin to rebuild their lives after the devastating fire.