Large Fire in Amherst Displaces Over 200 Residents
In Amherst, Massachusetts, a significant fire erupted Friday night, displacing more than 200 people. The blaze affected an apartment complex that serves as off-campus housing for many University of Massachusetts students.
Fire Incident Details
Firefighters from across western Massachusetts are still battling a three-alarm fire that began Friday evening in Amherst. The fire destroyed a building located at 57 Olympia Drive, near the UMass campus. Another building under construction on Olympia Drive was also lost in the flames.
Impact on Residents and Student Housing
Olympia Place, a private off-campus apartment complex housing numerous students, was severely damaged. Town and school officials confirmed that, despite the large scale of the fire and displacement, no injuries have been reported so far.
Fire Department Response
“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.”
Amherst Fire Department described the incident as “one of the largest fires our community has seen.” Crews worked throughout the night with assistance from mutual aid partners to contain the fire and protect lives.
"Crews worked tirelessly through the night — with help from our mutual aid partners — to stop the spread and protect lives."
Investigation
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Summary: A destructive fire in Amherst displaced over 200 residents from a UMass student housing complex, with emergency crews working overnight to contain the blaze despite challenges like low water pressure.