An apartment fire on Saturday, June 13 tore through several units on the 4400 block of Macon Road in the Berclair neighborhood, forcing nearly half a dozen families out of their homes with little notice. Fire crews managed to knock down the flames, and there were no reported injuries, according to residents and officials. Relief groups and city workers are now coordinating temporary housing and basic aid for everyone displaced.
Heavy Damage Leaves Five Units Unlivable
The Memphis Fire Department reported that three downstairs units suffered heavy fire damage, while two upstairs apartments were hit with smoke and water, leaving five apartments uninhabitable and displacing nearly a half-dozen families. Firefighters worked quickly to get the blaze under control despite difficult conditions and high temperatures, FOX13 Memphis reported.
Neighbors Recall Chaotic, Frantic Escapes
Neighbors described a chaotic scene as residents rushed to escape the burning building and gathered on nearby lawns. At least one person got out by breaking a window, and witnesses said volunteers and neighbors stepped in to help families grab what belongings they could and find short-term shelter while crews secured the scene.
Investigators Probing Cause Of Blaze
Officials said the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Flames appeared to start in a downstairs unit where a resident had been asleep, and neighbors say Kendra McDonald called 911 after the fire began. The Red Cross and city agencies were contacted to assist those displaced, and building inspectors were expected to assess the structure for safety, according to FOX13 Memphis.
Recent Fires Put Spotlight On Berclair Rentals
Berclair has seen several housing fires in recent months, including a pre-dawn blaze at Grahamwood Place Apartments in March that also brought out a large Memphis Fire Department response and an ongoing investigation. Those incidents have renewed local concerns about maintenance and fire safety in older rental properties, along with the need for working smoke detectors and clear escape routes. For background, see coverage of the pre-dawn blaze at Grahamwood Place and reporting from Action News 5.
Where Displaced Residents Can Turn For Help
Displaced residents seeking assistance can contact the City of Memphis 311 line or local relief organizations for shelter and recovery resources. Officials also urged anyone with information about the Berclair fire to contact emergency services so investigators can complete their review of the scene.
