SUFFOLK, Va. —
More than 100 people in Suffolk had to suddenly leave their apartments Wednesday. City officials say a major water leak forced everyone out of Suffolk Tower Apartments.
Some of the affected families opted to stay at the Quality Inn & Suites on Holland Road, courtesy of vouchers from apartment property managers. Others 13News Now spoke with are staying with family members for the meantime.
There’s a feeling of frustration among the neighbors we spoke with, as the future hangs in the balance.
The Suffolk Tower Apartments downtown are considered “dangerous and unsafe.” That’s according to new signs on the door. A water leak on the fifth floor forced everyone out after noon on Wednesday. Officials say the water dripped to units below. Many neighbors I spoke were asked to leave as a precaution.
“I’m just getting home from work and I’m supposed to leave. I’m tired,” said resident Kevin Henley.
Fire and rescue crews helped people lug their bags and suitcases out. City officials say 118 people are affected. Among them is Jackie Edgehill.
“It’s very hot. I have a headache now. No Excedrin, no Tylenol,” said Edgehill. She tells me she hustled to grab other medication, clothes and personal documents for herself, her husband and two children.
“I hope it gets better. It’s not the first we’ve had to evacuate. You pay money, you want to be somewhere good,” said Edgehill.
Police redirected traffic Wednesday afternoon as city shuttles were on standby. The city set up an emergency shelter at King’s Fork High School. It was open for a few hours, but it closed at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. That’s when we’re told property managers started offering vouchers at the Quality Inn hotel.
Dominion Energy crews also responded. City officials tell us addressing potential electrical hazards is one of their top concerns.
“Certainly working with the building officials in terms of the remediation, inspections, those types of things that will have to take place following this event,” said Diana Klink, a spokesperson for the City of Suffolk.
We’re told the leak is not active anymore. How it started is still under investigation. And it’s unclear exactly when residents can return.
“And you’re not telling us when we can come back? And then, we’re not knowing – are we paying our rent for next month?,” said Henley.
We’ve reached out to property management; we're waiting to hear back.