Massive apartment fire tears through downtown block
A fast-moving fire erupted late this morning in a six‑storey apartment building on Central Avenue in downtown Franklin, sending smoke and flames through multiple units and forcing dozens of residents to evacuate.
What happened
– The blaze began around 11:20 a.m., reportedly in a ground‑floor unit. Firefighters arrived within six minutes and launched both interior and exterior attacks.
– Flames and heavy smoke affected floors two through five, with the northern wing sustaining the most visible fire activity. Crews established defensive positions outside while interior teams searched the building.
– At least five people were taken to City General Hospital for smoke inhalation, according to on‑scene reporters. No further casualties have been reported during later updates.
On the scene
Fire Chief Daniel Reyes told reporters, “Our crews are working to contain the blaze and make sure everyone is out of the building. We have multiple units on site and are coordinating with EMS and police.” Officer Maria Lin asked the public to avoid the area to keep routes clear for emergency vehicles.
Police have cordoned off Central Avenue between Market Street and Third Street. Utilities crews are working to secure gas and power to the block as firefighters continue suppression efforts.
Timeline
– 11:20 a.m. — 911 calls report smoke and flames from a ground‑floor apartment.
– 11:26 a.m. — First engine arrives; command is established.
– 11:40 a.m. — Building evacuation completed; neighboring buildings evacuated as a precaution.
– 12:05 p.m. — Five patients triaged and transported to City General Hospital.
– 12:30 p.m. — Spread slows; aerial ladder operations in place.
– 12:50 p.m. — Northern wing declared contained; overhaul begins.
– 1:30 p.m. — Smoke levels fall substantially; investigators stage for entry.
Voices from the block
Residents described a chaotic, frightening evacuation. “I heard explosions upstairs and the corridor filled with smoke in seconds,” one witness said. Reporters observed heavy smoke and multiple tactical operations still underway during the afternoon.
What investigators are doing
Fire marshal investigators will move in once safety checks are complete to determine a cause. Officials say the fire likely started on the ground floor, but a formal determination is pending. The building — constructed in 1968 and home to about 40 apartments — will be examined for sprinkler coverage and past inspection records; Central Avenue has seen two major fires in the past decade.
Where displaced residents can go
A temporary shelter is open at the downtown community center for residents displaced by the fire. Donations such as blankets and bottled water are being accepted, but officials ask donors to consult the city’s emergency services page for an up‑to‑date list of needs before bringing supplies. Volunteers should check in at the community center for assignments and safety briefings.
How to help or provide information
Anyone with video or information that could help the investigation is asked to contact the Franklin Police Department.
Stay informed
For confirmed updates, follow the Franklin Fire Department and Franklin Police Department official channels. City and emergency officials’ statements take precedence over unverified social posts.
What happened
– The blaze began around 11:20 a.m., reportedly in a ground‑floor unit. Firefighters arrived within six minutes and launched both interior and exterior attacks.
– Flames and heavy smoke affected floors two through five, with the northern wing sustaining the most visible fire activity. Crews established defensive positions outside while interior teams searched the building.
– At least five people were taken to City General Hospital for smoke inhalation, according to on‑scene reporters. No further casualties have been reported during later updates.0