Published: July 22, 2008 11:54 am      

Fire destroys Romney apartment complex

Two firefighters treated for smoke inhalation, residents displaced

ROMNEY, W.Va. - Residents of a 13-apartment complex at Gravel Lane and Bolton Street were displaced after the two-story wood-framed building was destroyed by fire Monday afternoon, according to Romney Volunteer Fire Company Chief George Williams.

"The building is still standing, but the inside is pretty much gutted," said Williams, who arrived at the scene around 1 p.m. Monday.

Residents got out of the burning building safely; however, two cats perished in the blaze, which originated in one of the second story apartments, according to Williams.

While battling the fire, two firefighters, one from the Romney Volunteer Fire Company and the other from the Levels Volunteer Fire Company were taken to Hampshire Memorial where they were treated and released for smoke inhalation, according to Williams. A civilian was also treated for minor injuries after a fall at the scene, according to Williams.

The cause is of fire is still under investigation.

"One of the witnesses said they heard an explosion," said Williams.

The West Virginia Fire Marshal was notified and will be conducting the investigation.

Springfield, Burlington, Moorefield, Augusta, Keyser, Levels, and New Creek Fire Departments and Allegheny Power responded to the scene. Lambert's Ambulance Service, Romney Rescue Squad, Romney City Police and Hampshire County Sheriff's Office were also at the scene shortly before 2 p.m.

"There were about 50 firefighters on the scene," said Williams. Firefighters were still at the scene cleaning up after 7 p.m. Monday.

The American Red Cross was notified and is assisting the families, said Williams.

The location of the fire was near the Rite Aid store that is located on U.S. Route 50 in Romney.