Davie Fire-Rescue Capt. Brian Nolte said investigators are working quickly to determine how the fire started and hope to have a conclusion today. Until then, residents probably won't be allowed to return to their homes at the Arrowhead Condominium complex to retrieve any belongings that may have survived the intense flame and smoke, as well as the water barrage used to douse the blaze.
"The residents have been great, and we're doing everything we can to help them get in there," Nolte said. "But we've got to make sure it's safe, and we also don't want to do anything that would slow down the investigation. But we're doing our best for them."
Monday's fire was the third at the complex in a week. On Sept. 1, a man was murdered in his apartment by a roommate, who then set the place on fire to cover the crime, police said.
The fire was small and didn't spread very far. It was unrelated to the other two fires.
The second came just before midnight Saturday in the same building, perhaps in the same apartment, as Monday's. The fire also forced residents to the street before they were allowed back Sunday morning. It apparently was started when a cat knocked over a candle, investigators said.
The Red Cross is working with the victims to get them clothing and shelter. Davie officials and the condo president said they expect to set up a fund to take donations for the families sometime in the next day or two.
