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An early morning fire on Thursday (January 23) in Schenectady has displaced 20 residents from their homes. The fire occurred at 1046 University Place and was reported around 1 a.m. Firefighters quickly responded and managed to contain the blaze to a single apartment unit within approximately one hour and 15 minutes. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. The building, located near Union College, is not believed to be student housing, according to the assistant fire chief. The American Red Cross is providing assistance to 18 of the displaced individuals, which includes seven adults and 11 children from four households. They are receiving financial support for necessities such as shelter, food, and clothing. Volunteers are also offering health services, comfort kits, and personal care items to those affected.
News10 reported that the Red Cross will continue to support the displaced families in the coming days. The fire department's quick action prevented the fire from spreading beyond the first-floor apartment, although there was some smoke and water damage to the building.