Update: Thursday, August 25, 2011
A discarded cigarette is blamed for heavy damage to an east Wichita apartment complex, a Wichita Fire Department spokeswoman said late Thursday. The cigarette had been discarded in a plastic bucket outside on an apartment balcony.
Damage to the structure of the High Point East Apartments at 9400 E. Lincoln has been estimated to be about $500,000 with damage to the contents, about $250,000.
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Thursday, August 25, 2011
Fire crews continue to monitor the fire that has left at least 20 families without a home tonight.
Crews were called to the High Point East Apartments at 9400 E. Lincoln after 3:00 p.m.
At least two alarms were sounded on the fire, sending more firefighters to the scene.
Fire investigators said a passerby spotted the fire and called 911. It appears the fire started on a balcony and spread to the building's attic and roof.
Two people were treated for minor injuries and at least 20 residents have been displaced.
Firefighters went to a defensive mode, meaning all fire crews had to leave the building because the structure was unsafe. This also protected against flames spreading to nearby buildings.
