Albany Fire Department was dispatched to a two-story, residential fire at the Willow Glen Apartment complex Wednesday at 4:39 p.m. When police and fire crews arrived, there was significant smoke and fire showing from one building. All eight apartments in that building were safely evacuated.
Queen Avenue was shut down by Albany Police Department and firefighters began work to extinguish heavy fire on the south/east side of the structure. Both floors of the complex were affected but crews were able to keep the fire from spreading throughout the attic space, saving four of the apartments on the north side of the building. Extensive roof venting improved visibility and heat conditions for crews to extinguish fire on the interior. The fire was brought under control after 11 minutes and fully extinguished after 70 minutes of hard work.
Fire Investigators determined the origin of the fire to be an exterior deck, however the cause could not be determined due to structural instability which hindered the investigation.
A 2nd Alarm was called to bring additional resources to the scene. Crews from Lebanon Fire District and Scio Rural Fire District responded. Approximately 30 firefighters worked this blaze, with mutual aid assistance to cover other emergency calls in the City.
One occupant was evaluated for smoke exposure but was not transported. No injuries were reported by firefighters on the ground. All residents had renters’ insurance. The Albany Firefighters Community Assistance Fund was able to assist one displaced resident with housing for two nights and financially support another family who escaped with no shoes, jackets or proper winter clothing.
Apartment Fire Displaces Four Families
