More than 230 people have been displaced after a massive fire tore through an apartment complex in Massachusetts — and firefighters continue to battle the blaze.
According to NBC Boston, WHDH, and WCVB, emergency crews were first called to the fire in Amherst around 8:20 p.m. local time on Friday, Nov. 7.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst confirmed in a statement that one of the affected buildings was an off-campus apartment complex housing hundreds of its students. The fire quickly spread to a neighboring building, displacing even more residents.
Officials told local outlets that a four-story building under construction at the site sustained significant damage. A crane collapsed amid the flames, and several explosions were reported — possibly caused by nearby construction fuel tanks.
As of Saturday afternoon, officials reported no injuries, though the fire was still active around 1 p.m.
Video from the scene — located east of UMass Amherst’s main campus — showed intense flames and heavy smoke as fire departments from multiple towns joined forces to control the blaze.
In a statement, UMass Amherst said, “The university, the town of Amherst, regional aid agencies including the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), and the Olympia Drive management company are working to support affected students. The university is grateful for the community’s support for our students.”
The school added that an emergency resource center has been opened on campus for displaced students, who have been contacted directly with guidance and assistance. The university’s Student Care & Emergency Response Fund has also begun raising money to help those impacted.
Resident Dana Manor told NBC Boston that she and others were told to evacuate as the fire spread quickly.
“The fire was, like, all the way up to the roof. It was really, really strong,” she said, adding that some neighbors were searching for their pets as they fled.
Officials noted that low water pressure has complicated firefighting efforts. One nearby municipality sent a water tanker to help sustain operations.
The city of Amherst urged residents to conserve water, writing in a statement: “Please stop all non-essential water use immediately to help conserve water for firefighting efforts. Stay clear of the area and follow emergency services’ instructions. More information coming soon.”
