A large apartment building in the 1700 block of Central Avenue in Middletown erupted in flames early Monday, sending heavy fire through the upper floors and roof as thick smoke spread over the neighborhood in the pre-dawn dark.
Flames Erupt From Upper Floors and Roof
Fire crews were called out shortly after 5 a.m., when heavy flames were already shooting from the second and third floors and the roof, according to FOX19. The outlet was live at the scene, sharing photos and video of firefighters battling the blaze from multiple angles.
Central Avenue’s Troubling Fire History
The city operates several fire stations that cover Central Avenue, including one directly along the corridor, according to the City of Middletown. The stretch has seen serious incidents in recent years. In 2024, a minivan crash triggered a house fire in the 4200 block, as reported by WCPO. Previous large apartment fires in the city have also required dozens of mutual-aid crews, according to a Journal-News photo gallery.
Officials Tight-Lipped So Far
Authorities have not yet released any information about possible injuries, evacuations or what might have caused Monday’s fire. FOX19 said it would continue live coverage and update its reporting as more details come in.
