Flames ravaged the Millennium Cove Apartments in Orlando near the Mall at Millenia yesterday, leaving several residents without a home. The Orlando Fire Department arrived at the scene around 7 p.m., tackling the three-alarm fire that had affected at least 16 units. In a statement obtained by ClickOrlando, Assistant Chief Corey Philman described the blaze as "a big fire" with "heavy fire involvement and a lot of thick, dark smoke."
Witnesses at the apartment complex, located on the 4600 block of Cason Cove Drive, expressed relief that everyone escaped unscathed. "I was terrified. I'm scared of these types of things," Rooney Johnson told ClickOrlando in an interview. Despite the fear, with flames reaching the tops of buildings, the Orlando Fire Department reported no injuries to residents or firefighters. However, at least 15 people are facing the harsh reality of homelessness, with the Red Cross stepping in to provide necessary assistance.
The fire's intensity reached a point where firefighters were forced to retreat and readjust their strategy after 25 minutes. This came as some residents watched, uncertain of their homes' futures. "It's just one building that looks like it burned in the back, and there were flames up at the top as well when I walked out of my apartment," Stephanie Williams, a resident, said to ClickOrlando.
The aftermath of the conflagration left at least four families in need of Red Cross assistance, and they have been promised continued support from staff and volunteers. Amidst the ash and rubble, terrified neighbors recounted a loud boom, followed by urgent knocks at the door telling them to move their cars, as reported by WESH 2. The cause of the fire is still being investigated, and more details will emerge as officials gather information.
