Local News

Actions

Nearly two dozen searching for new home after apartment fire

Clark County Fire Department says all 16 units in Building F of Esper Apartments on Viking Road are "a total loss."
Ryan Ketcham reports from the scene of a fire that destroyed an entire apartment building
Posted
and last updated

LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — An apartment fire that broke out on Monday morning has left 21 people and 10 animals displaced.

Clark County Fire Department says the fire broke out around 8:40 a.m. and was listed as a 2-alarm fire. The fire burned through a 2-story apartment complex building at Esper Apartments on Viking Rd. CCFD says all 16 units inside the building are a total loss, forcing everyone who lived there to find a new home.

"I just heard them say your house is on fire, we have your dog, I just got to go, I told them I got to go," said resident Ariana Dixon. "I get to the corner, and I just see all the flames up, I'm like, this is bad, I was devastated."

"When we got the call from our brother, we just rushed out here. We didn't know what was going on, trying to reach her, just making sure she was safe," said Aunt of apartment resident Marie Heater.

Everyone made it out safe. CCFD says there were no injuries, but 18 adults, three children, and 10 animals are now displayed, all trying to find a new place to stay.

"It's all confusing, we don't really know which way to go because with apartments, you need renter's insurance, but we don't know what the extent of that is, what they will pay for or not," said Dixon.

The American Red Cross is helping everyone displaced by the fire. They're working to help those in need find temporary and permanent housing.

They'll also connect everyone with community services for food, clothes, and any other necessities.

CCFD says the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage, in regards to the overall price to replace and coverage for residents, is still being determined. However, CCFD says one person was detained, and police say arson investigators were on site.

70 fire personnel fought the fire, according to officials.