NORFOLK, Va. — An entire Norfolk apartment complex is left uninhabitable after a fire broke out Thursday night, a Norfolk Fire-Rescue Battalion Chief has confirmed.
The fire started around 6:24 p.m. at 1701 Springfield Avenue, which is just off Campostella Road. Officials said it spawned on the first-floor apartment of a two-story, eight-unit apartment building. It quickly spread to the second floor and attic.
One woman said her daughter lost everything. She said she shared the apartment with her husband and kids.
“Devastated, sad, angry. Christmas is just gone," said Erika Williams Tucker.
The Chesapeake Fire Department was dispatched to help because of the fire's size. After trying to control the fire from inside the building, firefighters transitioned to attacking it from the outside. It was under control by 7:05 p.m.
Meanwhile, across the street, Metropolitan A.M.E Zion Church opened its doors to offer shelter and comfort.
“The church is for the community, so we’re here for them. Whatever they need, we’re here for them," said Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church Pastor Derwin Little.
Councilmember John "J.P." Paige represents Ward 4. He said he heard about the fire and wanted to comfort the people who were displaced from their homes right before Christmas.
“As leadership we need to show up. We need to be in the places and spaces where our citizens are going through things. Sometimes it's the greatest sign of support just to show up," said Paige.
This Saturday, the church is hosting a toy drive. The pastor plans to give all the kids impacted by the fire a chance to pick out their gifts first. People can drop off donations tomorrow and Saturday.
Fire officials have not confirmed any injuries or the exact number of displacements at this time, but they say all occupants will be displaced. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Little is now looking to help all of the impacted individuals by raising donations through his church.
The pastor said he is truly looking to donate anything he can - including toys, food, clothing, shoes, as these families lost it all in the fire.
If you would like to donate items, you can visit the Metropolitan A.M.E Zion Church located on Springfield Avenue.