Lee Erwin and Rob Selkow Reporting
news@clarksvillenow.com
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – A fire broke out early Thursday at the Avondale Park Apartments off the 41A Bypass.
The fire was reported in Building G around 6 a.m., and all but one of the eight units were occupied. It is considered a total loss.
WKRN News 2 reports that residents were forced to jump from the second floor, and one woman had to toss her two young children (ages one and five) from the second floor window. They were caught by someone on the sidewalk below.
Clarksville police officers helped citizens get other residents out of the building.
(See photos HERE)
Four units from Clarksville Fire Rescue were still dousing the building more than an hour after arriving on the scene. The roof was destroyed and smoke was seen billowing out of huge holes on the front and side of the building.
EMS, Clarksville Police and at least two ambulances responded. It has been confirmed that three victims were transported to Gateway Medical Center with minor injuries; two for smoke inhalation, one for back pain. As of Thursday evening all three were reported to be in good condition.
According to Clarksville Fire Rescue Fire Marshall, Ray Willimas, it is believed the fire started in the kitchen of one of the apartments while someone was cooking.
The Red Cross is assisting the families who were displaced in the fire. Call 931-645-6401 to donate.