Massive Fire Erupts in Amherst
On Friday evening, several fire departments responded to a major fire on Olympia Drive in Amherst, Massachusetts. The blaze primarily affected the University of Massachusetts Amherst community, displacing around 230 people, mostly students.
Impact and Response
The fire broke out around 8:00 p.m. in a building under construction. When firefighters arrived, the structure was fully engulfed and the flames were spreading to nearby buildings. Explosions heard at the scene were caused by fuel tanks at the construction site, which also led to the collapse of a construction crane.
Support for Displaced Students
“Olympia Place residents have immediate access to all dining commons at no cost, and an on-campus emergency resource center will be opened at noon today to centralize critical student needs including housing, medication, clothing, academic accommodations, counseling, and more. Student residents of Olympia Place will be contacted directly this morning with the location of the emergency resource center; we ask that only residents of Olympia Place use this space out of respect for the needs of those most directly affected.” – Emily Gest, UMass Amherst spokesperson
The emergency resource center aims to provide essential support and services to those most affected by the fire.
Eyewitness Reports
Western Mass News was first to arrive, witnessing the intense flames and talking with onlookers as the situation unfolded.
Summary
This devastating fire displaced hundreds of UMass Amherst students, prompting swift emergency response and support efforts to address immediate needs and ensure student welfare.