Duplex Fire in Manatee County Displaces 20 Residents, Causes $250,000 in Damage

A fire at a Manatee County duplex displaced 20 residents Friday afternoon and caused an estimated $250,000 in damage, according to fire officials.

Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue responded to a reported structure fire at approximately 1:15 p.m. on Jan. 17 at 215 and 213 60th Avenue Drive West. Crews arriving on scene encountered heavy black smoke and visible flames coming from the duplex.

Firefighters launched an aggressive attack and brought the blaze under control within 20 minutes. Assistance was provided by Southern Manatee Fire Rescue, Bradenton Fire Department, and Manatee County Emergency Medical Services.

No injuries were reported. However, 20 residents were displaced by the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting those affected with immediate needs.

Fire officials said the cause of the fire was ruled undetermined. Damage to the structure and its contents is estimated at $250,000, according to Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue.

Photo Credit: Manatee FIRE Photo