AURORA, Colo. — Three people were injured and at least 300 residents were displaced on Saturday after an explosion rocked a Colorado apartment complex, authorities said.
Aurora Fire Rescue responded to reports of smoke at the Parkside Collective Apartments at about 9:57 a.m. MDT, KMGH-TV reported. Firefighters were searching for hazards when an explosion ripped out an exterior wall, according to The Denver Post.
“I just ran out as soon as I heard the explosion,” Xerek Segura, a resident at the complex, told KDVR-TV.
Aurora Fire Rescue crews responded to reports of smoke conditions in multi family residential structure.
— Aurora Fire Rescue (@AuroraFireDpt) September 10, 2022
On arrival, crews began searching for hazards when an explosion occurred. Searches and evacuation in progress, damage to the building is being assessed. Updates as available. pic.twitter.com/gRk0NbSTOG
At this time the occupants of the building, between 300-400 residents, will be relocated with the assistance of @RedCross @RideRTD to a nearby shelter location. Long term accommodations will be coordinated through @RedCross based on need.
— Aurora Fire Rescue (@AuroraFireDpt) September 10, 2022
“I wonder(ed) what the safe distance to watch a fire is, next thing I know I just hear a bang,” another resident, Phillip Oransky, told the television station. “I see debris flying, there’s people lined against the Cheba Hut over there. First thing I can think is: not the safe distance.”
Alison Goodwin, another resident, said she heard the explosion after evacuating her building.
“So I started walking by and then I heard a loud noise,” Goodwin told KMGH. “I just kept walking and saying (to myself), ‘Don’t look back! Don’t look back! That’s your life in there. That’s your kid. It’s all your kid’s clothes.’ So I kept walking.”
— Aurora Fire Rescue (@AuroraFireDpt) September 10, 2022
At least 300 people in the five-story building were displaced after the fire and explosion, the Post reported.
The three people injured in the explosion were taken to area hospitals for treatment, according to KMGH. Their injuries are not considered severe.
Authorities said the explosion happened near electrical equipment, an elevator and utility meters, KUSA-TV reported.
According to fire officials, the Red Cross is aiding residents and helping them find long-term accommodations.
The cause of the explosion and fire is under investigation, authorities said.
The Red Cross of the Mile High Area has opened an evacuation shelter for those impacted by the East Alameda Avenue multi family fire.
— American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming (@COWYRedCross) September 10, 2022
📍Gateway High School: 1300 S Sable Blvd, Aurora, CO 80012
Volunteers will be on hand to offer comfort and care. pic.twitter.com/CjScFz7rJk
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