Families were forced to evacuate their homes due to a massive fire described as the largest the city has witnessed in years.
Over 100 firefighters were actively fighting the blaze on Leetsdale Drive in Denver, Colorado, which the head of the fire department labeled as “significant.” The fire originated at a three-story apartment complex under construction around 7:45 pm on Friday night (2:45 am Saturday, UK time), resulting in the collapse of the structure.
Robert Murphy, Denver Fire’s division chief of operations, expressed, “This is a significant event. It’s been a considerable amount of time since Denver encountered a three-alarm fire of this magnitude.”
Some residents of a nearby apartment building were instructed to evacuate due to the intense heat emitted by the fire, as confirmed by emergency services.
The building, in the early to mid-stages of construction, contained plastic materials for wrapping and construction purposes.
Authorities reported that the fire is currently around 70% contained, although there are still active fire pockets within the building. Firefighters are expected to stay on-site overnight to fully extinguish any remaining hot spots. The cause of the fire remains undetermined.
In a separate incident, a devastating nightclub fire in Switzerland claimed the lives of over 40 individuals, including a 16-year-old boy and nine of his companions who are currently missing following the New Year’s Eve celebration.
Approximately 1,000 Xcel Energy customers in the vicinity experienced power outages due to the fire. Nearby establishments, like Sam’s No. 3 Glendale, had to close early after losing power.
Multiple fire departments, including Aurora’s, provided assistance to the Denver Fire Department during the firefighting operation.
On-site, Mr. Murphy addressed reporters, emphasizing the extensive damage caused by the fire and the challenges faced due to the absence of fire containment systems within the building.
The firefighting effort, with firefighters using ladder trucks to douse the flames, has been relentless. Denver Water increased water pressure to support the firefighting operation.
Footage captured at the scene shows flames engulfing the area, with the under-construction building reportedly collapsing. Nearby residents were evacuated, and reports indicate at least one firefighter sustained injuries and was hospitalized.
The ongoing operation on Leetsdale Drive remains a top priority as firefighters work to fully contain the blaze.