Aurora Fire Rescue responded to two fires at the same apartment complex within an hour of each other on Wednesday evening. The first fire was a small brush fire that was fully extinguished by Engine 3. However, an hour later, the building’s alarm system detected smoke and flames were found climbing up the exterior of the building. Engine 8, Engine 2, and other units arrived to help extinguish the fire. It was discovered that the fire had infiltrated the exterior wall and burned a section of the sprinkler room on the first floor. Investigators determined that the initial mulch fire was sparked by a stray cigarette or smoking device, but the cause of the second fire is still under investigation.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and residents were able to return to their homes after the fires were extinguished. It is unclear if the two fires are related. Aurora Fire Rescue commended the quick response of their crews and the aid of other units in containing the fires. The department is continuing to investigate the cause of the second fire to prevent any future incidents. The community is reminded to be cautious with smoking materials to prevent accidental fires like the one that occurred at the apartment complex.
