Dozens of families have been displaced after a massive apartment fire destroyed a three-story apartment building at the Jefferson Park Apartments in the 1100 block of Hidden Ridge. [[375068781,R]]
Irving Assistant Fire Chief told NBC 5 that there was one minor firefighter injury but all residents were uninjured. The fire completely destroyed one building and 80 people have been displaced.
"I'm feeling all types of emotions," said resident Jared Thomas. "But I'm not a quitter, I've been down before, and I'll just start over."
Officials said that 40 units were damaged by the fire and 24 units have potential fire, smoke and water damage.
The Irving Fire Department said that engineers will determine whether the building is structurally sound or at risk of collapse Friday night. Until then firefighters will be at the complex and residents are not allowed to go in and check their apartments yet.
"I think there’s going to be some smoke damage, because it
was the building right next to it," said resident Ashley Zuniga. "So it’s frustrating, I just want to get in
there and make sure everything’s okay."
Red Cross said they are working to make sure that families have a safe place to stay, and buy new shoes, clothing, groceries and other necessities.