Heavy smoke poured from a four-unit apartment building in east Charlotte on Tuesday afternoon, sending residents scrambling and firefighters racing to the 1400 block of East 35th Street. Crews had visible flames knocked down in under 20 minutes, then moved quickly to search for anyone still inside, including pets.
One person was taken to the hospital with minor injuries, officials said, and two of the four apartments were left uninhabitable while investigators work to figure out what sparked the blaze.
What The Fire Department Posted
In a social media update, the Charlotte Fire Department said Engine 7 arrived within minutes to find heavy smoke pouring from the four-unit, garden-style building in the 1400 block of E. 35th St. Crews brought the fire under control in about 18 minutes, according to the post.
The department added that working smoke alarms helped alert occupants, and that two units were left displaced. The post also noted that the American Red Cross was called in to assist the affected residents.
Timeline And Injuries
WCCB reported that MEDIC transported one person to a hospital with minor injuries and that about 30 firefighters responded to the blaze. According to the station, the call came in at around 4 p.m. on Tuesday and the fire was brought under control in less than 20 minutes.
Assistance And Safety Steps
The American Red Cross Greater Carolinas chapter is helping residents displaced by the fire with short-term support and referrals, the Red Cross says. The organization encourages people affected by home fires to contact its hotline for assistance with immediate needs such as temporary shelter, food, and clothing.
Investigation And A Reminder
Charlotte Fire said investigators will comb through the scene to determine how the fire started and will interview residents as part of the investigation.
The department also used its post as a public safety nudge, urging neighbors to test their smoke alarms and make sure they are working. It added that it is currently accepting firefighter applications as part of its ongoing outreach to the community.
