LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville Fire crews battled an apartment fire in the Phoenix Hill neighborhood early Monday morning.
The fire was first reported around 6:15 a.m. at 605 Ballard Street, which is near East Jefferson and South Hancock streets.
Flames and heavy smoke could be seen from outside of the building, and from the skyline of downtown Louisville. According to the address, the building is part of the 310 @ Nulu complex.
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Officials are concerned the structure could collapse.
"Although you see the façade still standing, the interior mostly has collapsed on itself," Fire Chief Brian O'Neill said. "Once we have structural engineers say certain areas are safe, we want to salvage as much as we can for people. We want to help them, but we have to make sure it's safe first."
He added the construction of the building may have been a big factor, especially when compared to the older buildings in the area.
Fire Captain Donovan Sims said the awning was on fire when crews arrived. No injuries were reported, but several people were helped out of the complex.
Close to 100 firefighters were on scene battling the fire at the nine year old building, and 37 units were impacted. The building was declared a total loss.
Officials said the fire started in an area where safety detectors don't typically pick up.
According to Louisville Fire, this is now an arson investigation.
The American Red Cross is assisting those who have been displaced.
"Also have to say that the management company has been doing a very good job working with the people, helping that, and trying to get them rehoused as well," O'Neill said.
The University of Louisville confirmed six of their students were displaced by the fire. Anyone who wishes to help can click this link to find out how.
