MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A fire breaks out overnight in Midtown, resulting in a man being hospitalized and over $300,000 in damages, according to the Memphis Fire Department (MFD). The incident occurred early Wednesday morning at the Midtown Rooms on North Montgomery Street.
The fire reportedly started just before 3 a.m., triggered by a space heater placed too close to combustible items. Firefighters battled the flames for several hours, with the fire originating on the second floor of the apartment building. One man suffered from smoke inhalation and was transported to Regional One Hospital in stable condition, although he was not burned.
Jon Vaughan, a tenant, recounted the terrifying moment he was awakened by a fellow resident screaming for help. “When I came out, it looked like it had been burning for a while. It was kind of intense. It was coming out the back window,” Vaughan said. He noted that the man was trying to evacuate the entire building.
Fortunately, all residents managed to escape safely, but many were left with only the clothes on their backs. Vaughan, who has lived in the building for over a decade, is now searching for a new home after his apartment was engulfed in flames.
The property owners reported that the building contained about 20 units, but with many residents displaced, they are working on plans to relocate tenants to their vacant units. Vaughan expressed his determination to salvage what he could from his apartment before making further decisions. “I think after the truck leaves, I think we may be able to go inside and find out,” he said.
Losses in the Fire Incident: Fire Breaks Out Overnight
The fire caused an estimated $337,000 in losses, affecting not only the building but also vehicles and personal belongings. Multiple units on the first and second floors sustained smoke, fire, and water damage, highlighting the devastating impact of this accidental fire.
As the investigation continues, the community is left to reflect on the dangers of improper space heater use and the importance of fire safety measures.
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