Investigation continues into Wynnefield Heights fire

WYNNEFIELD HEIGHTS - March 17, 2011

Four families were displaced by the Wednesday night fire.

On Thursday, investigators were on the scene of the scorched Building 28 in the Lincoln Green complex. Much of the focus was on a third-floor unit where, officials believe, the fire started.

It took firefighters 45 minutes to get the blaze under control. During the battle there were floors collapsing and fears the entire building would come tumbling down.

Some residents complained that they never heard any alarms, only the frantic alerts from neighbors.

"Due to the efforts of one of our neighbors is the only way we knew there was a fire. We left the building and when we got inside the building was an inferno. It was blazing," said resident Ronald Thomas.

"Extremely devastating. I don't know what I have left if I have anything at all," said resident Anita Bradfield.

By the time the flames were out, four units were totally destroyed. A total of 15 people were displaced, including a child, but there were no serious injuries.

The Red Cross arrived quickly to help take care of the victims. By Thursday, they were being placed in vacant units right on the premises.

"Lincoln Green has been so helpful. They've gotten us another apartment and we just went to look at it this afternoon," said fire victim Chris Sengel.

Throughout Thursday the management of Lincoln Green was keeping tenants and reporters away from the scene claiming they are waiting for the fire marshal's report.

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