SACRAMENTO, Calif. (PSN) — A three-alarm fire erupted late Tuesday night in a Sacramento apartment complex, displacing more than 40 residents and damaging two buildings, according to the Sacramento Metro Fire Department.
The blaze broke out shortly before 11:30 p.m., rapidly spreading through a 16-unit building and prompting evacuations in an adjacent structure. Battalion Chief Parker Wilbourn noted that wind conditions significantly intensified the fire's spread. "The fire intensity was incredible, with the wind playing a major factor in the fire’s rapid spread," Wilbourn said. "We’re fortunate there were no fatalities, and no additional buildings were damaged. This fire could’ve easily been much worse if not for the hard work of over 85 firefighters working to contain the blaze to the building of origin."
In total, 32 units across the two buildings were evacuated. All 16 units in one building sustained damage, with nine experiencing major destruction. Occupants of the second building were displaced after burning power lines fell, cutting off electricity. The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) is working to restore service.
Three individuals were injured in the fire. Two were transported by ambulance in stable condition, including one with smoke inhalation injuries. A third person reportedly self-transported with burns.
The Red Cross and apartment management are assisting displaced residents with temporary shelter. "We’re working closely with the Red Cross and property management to ensure those affected have a safe place to stay," Wilbourn added.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control after several hours. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.