An early morning blaze left at least 12 people looking for a place to live Monday.
Witnesses said the fire started at about 1 a.m. in building 127 at the Regency Park apartments in Greenwood. Fire officials said seven apartments were destroyed in the fire.
Fire officials said no one was hurt in the blaze but witnesses said it started on the top level of the three-story building.
Resident Angela Coleman thought she would be spending Monday morning in class at Lander University. But instead, she found herself at the Greenwood County Red Cross Office.
"I had never seen a fire before. It was actually really weird watching something burn," said Coleman.
Coleman was one of at least 12 people displaced because of the fire.
"At about 1 a.m. you heard people screaming. Somebody was screaming 'fire,'" said Coleman. "By that time, someone started banging on the door and told everyone to evacuate the building."
Coleman and her roommate were able to save all of their belongings.
"People on the top floor lost everything," said fire victim Chris Lawrence. "We were very fortunate to get something out. But it was pretty scary."
The Greenwood Red Cross said it will spend about $10,000 in assistance for the displaced victims.
"We met with several families and are giving them assistance with housing in hotels, clothing, and food," said Barbara Turnburke of the Greenwood County Red Cross. "Everything is replaceable. The kids are all fine. We are thankful for that."
An official cause for the fire has not been found but witnesses said a cigarette may have started it.
Copyright 2006 by WYFF4.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
