BELLAIRE, Ohio — Residents of Carnes Senior Apartments on Belmont Street were evacuated Monday night after a fire was reported on the fourth floor of the building.
The incident was initially reported as a fire alarm activation around 10:02 p.m. on Sept. 29. Responding firefighters later confirmed a working structure fire, prompting an evacuation of the apartment building.
By approximately 10:10 p.m., the incident was reported as a fourth-floor fire possibly involving two rooms. Fire departments from Neffs, Martins Ferry and Shadyside were among those responding to assist.
The fire was reported extinguished shortly afterward. Smoke remained throughout the building, and water from the sprinkler system was reported coming through the ceiling. Firefighters checked the building for any extension of the fire and reported finding none.
Crews also checked an elevator amid concern that residents could be inside. The elevator was later confirmed clear. A stair chair was requested to assist residents who needed help getting down the stairs.
By approximately 10:57 p.m., a request was made to contact the American Red Cross because about 35 adults were expected to need overnight accommodations due to conditions inside the building.
No injuries were reported in the information available from the incident.
The extent of the damage and the cause of the fire were not immediately available.
