Flames Tear Through Ohio Apartment Building

April 12, 2007
Police said officers and fire officials helped more than 50 residents escape.

Smoke and flames ripped through a three-story apartment building overnight leaving, more than 50 people without a place to stay.

The fire happened around 3:15 a.m. Thursday at 340 South Main Street near downtown Dayton. Firefighters said heavy smoke was pouring from the structure when they arrived at the scene.

Police said officers and fire officials helped more than 50 residents escape their apartments without any injuries.

Firefighters said sprinklers in the hallway worked well, preventing the fire on the first floor from spreading.

Authorities said residents have not been allowed to return yet. Officials had to turn off the gas, electric and water to the building.

The Red Cross is helping about 50 people find a new place to stay until they can return to their apartment. Investigators said the first-floor apartment where the fire started was destroyed.

Investigators said the fire caused about $125,000 in damage. They said the fire also appears to be accidental.

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