Large Fire in Amherst Displaces Over 200 People, Many UMass Students
In Amherst, Massachusetts, a significant fire broke out Friday night in an apartment complex used by numerous University of Massachusetts students as off-campus housing. The blaze forced more than 200 residents to evacuate.
Description of the Incident
The fire, which required a three-alarm response, occurred near the UMass campus at 57 Olympia Drive. It devastated the apartment complex and also destroyed a nearby building that was still under construction. Firefighters from across western Massachusetts responded to the emergency.
Impact and Response
- No injuries have been reported, according to town and school officials.
- The fire attack was complicated by poor water pressure in the area, delaying containment efforts.
- Amherst Fire Department called this blaze "one of the largest fires our community has seen."
Current Status and Investigation
“One four-story building that was under construction has collapsed and other nearby buildings are still burning and have partially collapsed. The fire attack has been hampered by poor water pressure in the area.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Official Statements
"Crews worked tirelessly through the night — with help from our mutual aid partners — to stop the spread and protect lives," the Amherst Fire Department posted on social media.
Olympia Place is a private apartment complex housing many UMass students, highlighting the fire's impact on the local student community.
Author's summary: A large fire in Amherst displaced over 200 residents, mainly UMass students, destroying multiple buildings and challenging emergency crews due to low water pressure.