Fire Displaces More Than 30 Residents at Coral Club Apartments in Cedar Hammock
A fast-moving fire at the Coral Club Apartments in Cedar Hammock forced more than 30 residents from their homes Friday after flames tore through an 18-unit building.
Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue responded to the three-story structure at 5920 36th Street West just over two minutes after receiving reports of a building fire. Crews arrived to find heavy flames and thick smoke pouring from the rear of the building, with smoke spreading across all three levels at the front.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control within 30 minutes, but not before it caused significant damage. Three units were heavily damaged, and 15 others sustained severe water damage as the fire spread vertically throughout the building. Power was knocked out to the entire structure.
Officials estimate more than $1 million in damage to property and personal belongings.
Fire crews rescued multiple pets from the affected units. One person suffered minor injuries but did not require hospitalization, according to Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Bureau of Fire, Arson & Explosives Investigations.
The American Red Cross responded to assist Coral Club property management with relocation efforts for the displaced residents, ensuring temporary support as cleanup and recovery begin.
Photo Credit: Manatee Fire Photo
