An apartment fire in Overland Park late Saturday evening displaced residents of eight units at the complex.
Firefighters from Overland Park and Consolidated Fire District No. 2 were called to 6729 W. 87th Terrace in the Colonial Gardens Apartments at 8:36 p.m.
Arriving firefighters reported smoke and fire showing from the roof of the two-story building as they approached and immediately ordered a second alarm for additional staffing and resources.
The second alarm brought in additional firefighters from Overland Park and Consolidated Fire District No. 2, along with assistance from the Leawood, Lenexa and Shawnee fire departments.
A second alarm also included Johnson County Med-Act’s firefighter rehabilitation unit.
In a news release, Overland Park Fire Department Media Manager Jason Rhodes said fire crews went to work attacking the fire, which was in the attic, as others searched the building to ensure everyone had evacuated.
A water main break in front of the apartment building caused additional issues for firefighters, with a large amount of water flowing uncontrollably across 87th Terrace.
WaterOne workers eventually slowed the flow of water from the broken pipe.
“It took crews about 20 minutes to knock down the fire and about an hour to conduct overhaul and officially declare the fire under control,” Rhodes said. “One feline was rescued and returned to its owner.”
Firefighters could be seen working on the balcony of one apartment, which was heavily damaged. Flames had torn through the exterior siding and the roof.
In all, eight apartments were left uninhabitable after most of the smoke had cleared, Rhodes said.
Apartment complex management and the Red Cross are helping the displaced residents with housing and other needs.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
No injuries were reported.
