NEW HAVEN, CT — On Saturday evening, a significant apartment fire erupted at a complex located at 279 Blake Street in New Haven’s Beaver Hills neighborhood, leading to the displacement of approximately 30 residents.
Firefighters responded to the scene around 6 p.m., encountering heavy flames emanating from the building’s roof. Assistant Fire Chief Dan Coughlin noted that access to the complex was challenging due to gates and fences that had to be cut to reach the affected areas. Three apartments were completely engulfed, with additional units sustaining varying degrees of damage before the fire was brought under control.
During the operation, one firefighter suffered a back injury and was transported to the hospital; they have since been released. Fortunately, no injuries among residents were reported.
The fire originated on the rear porch of one of the apartments, though the exact cause remains under investigation. The affected building, comprising eight units, is managed by Mandy Management. Two units sustained direct fire damage, while utilities were shut off for the remaining apartments due to safety concerns.
Displaced residents expressed frustration over the uncertainty of their immediate housing arrangements.
“Stuff happens. I’m thankful that mine didn’t burn up, but I’m still out of, I can’t go in my house. But they need to get it together.”
One resident remarked,
Assistant Chief Shakira Samuel emphasized the importance of functional smoke detectors and mentioned that investigations are underway to verify their operational status in all apartments.
“Right now, the fire marshal’s office is investigating to make sure all the residences or all the apartments have working smoke detectors, and some detectors really do save lives.”
Assistant Chief Shakira Samuel stated.
The American Red Cross has been notified to assist the displaced families, and local authorities are coordinating efforts to provide temporary shelter and support.
