Large Fire in Amherst Displaces Over 200 People
In Amherst, Massachusetts, a major fire broke out Friday night in an apartment complex that serves as off-campus housing for many University of Massachusetts (UMass) students. This three-alarm blaze has displaced more than 200 residents, but fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Fire Details and Impact
The fire engulfed the apartment complex located at 57 Olympia Drive, near the UMass campus. In addition to destroying this building, a nearby structure still under construction on Olympia Drive was also lost to the flames.
Significance and Challenges
Amherst Fire Department officials described the incident as “one of the largest fires our community has seen.” Early Saturday morning, the department shared that:
“One four-story building that was under construction has collapsed and other buildings nearby 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.
Emergency Response
Firefighters from across western Massachusetts worked through the night to contain the fire and prevent further damage. The Amherst Fire Department highlighted their effort on social media:
“Crews worked tirelessly through the night — with help from our mutual aid partners — to stop the spread and protect lives.”
About Olympia Place
Olympia Place is a private apartment complex heavily used by UMass students for off-campus housing, making this fire particularly impactful for the student community.
Summary: A massive fire at an Amherst apartment complex housing many UMass students displaced over 200 people, with no injuries reported, while firefighters continue battling the blaze amid difficult conditions.