Two people were transported to Three Rivers Health Sunday evening after an apartment fire in the 600 block of S. Erie Ave. displaced 14 families, according to Three Rivers Police Chief Scott Boling.

On Sunday, January 21 at 6:24 p.m. police and fire department personnel were dispatched to the 600 block of S. Erie Ave. following a report of heavy smoke coming from an apartment. When emergency services arrived, search and rescue efforts and fire suppression began immediately. In addition to the two individuals transported to the hospital, several others were treated on scene and released.  

Due to the efforts of fire services, the fire was contained to one apartment. The apartment building sustained extensive smoke damage and utilities had to be shut off, displacing the aforementioned 14 families. 

Three Rivers City Hall was opened for the displaced families while St. Joseph County Victim Services and Red Cross are working on securing other temporary lodging to those affected by the fire.  

The City of Three Rivers would like to thank the Centerville Fire Department, Fabius-Park Fire Department, St. Joseph County Victim Services, St. Joseph County Transportation Authority, and Red Cross for their assistance.

Alek Haak-Frost is executive editor and publisher of Watershed Voice.