Large Fire in Amherst Displaces Over 200 People, Many UMass Students Affected
A major fire broke out Friday night in Amherst, Massachusetts, displacing more than 200 residents, including many students from the University of Massachusetts who lived off campus. The blaze destroyed an apartment complex near the UMass campus at 57 Olympia Drive, which served as housing for numerous students.
Extent of the Damage
The fire escalated to a three-alarm status and involved firefighters from across western Massachusetts. In addition to the main apartment building, a nearby four-story building under construction on Olympia Drive was also destroyed. Officials reported that some adjacent buildings partially collapsed due to the fire.
Response and Challenges
The Amherst Fire Department described the incident as "one of the largest fires our community has seen." According to an early Saturday press release:
“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.”
Despite these obstacles, firefighters and mutual aid partners worked through the night to contain the fire and protect lives.
No Injuries Reported
Local and school officials confirmed that there were no reported injuries among the displaced residents. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.
"Crews worked tirelessly through the night — with help from our mutual aid partners — to stop the spread and protect lives," the Amherst Fire Department stated on social media.
Apartment Complex Details
Olympia Place is a private apartment complex offering off-campus housing that accommodates a large number of UMass students.
Summary
The significant fire in Amherst severely impacted off-campus student housing, displacing over 200 people but thankfully causing no injuries, with the cause still unknown.
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