HUMBLE, Texas – Nearly six dozen firefighters responded to massive flames Tuesday morning at an apartment complex in Humble.
The fire broke out just before noon at the Deerbrook Forest Apartments in the 17700 block of U.S. 59, firefighters said. Officials said it damaged 24 units in the building.
Flames could be seen shooting from the roof and sides of the building.
DeShaun Jackson was reading a book when he heard a loud crackling noise outside his unit.
“I assumed it was some kids playing with fireworks,” Jackson said.
Soon after, Jackson said saw the bright orange flames climbing up his building.
“I was freaking out,” he said. “I just wanted to make sure all the doors were pounded on and got people out.”
It took a crew of about 70 firefighters nearly 45 minutes to knock the fire down. They spent the rest of the afternoon putting out hot spots. Firefighters said a strong breeze made it difficult to fight the fire, though it kept crews cool in the summer heat.
No injuries were reported.
The Red Cross is assisting those who have been displaced.
“It’s material things, and material things can always be replaced,” Jackson said. “I’m more concerned about the loss of life and that was not the case today.”
Several residents tell Channel 2 News welders were working in the area near where the fire started. They believe something they were working on may have sparked the flames.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.