WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — A three-alarm fire that tore through a Wesley Chapel apartment building Thursday left the structure "a total loss" and displaced approximately 200 residents, Pasco County Fire Rescue said in a social media post.
Fire crews were called to Cobalt Apartments in the 3900 block of Jermyn Loop shortly after 3 p.m.
Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the roof, prompting an immediate evacuation, PCFR said.
More than 90 units were evacuated, and the fire affected approximately 400 residents, the agency said. Dozens of pets were also rescued from the building.
No injuries to residents or firefighters have been reported.
Investigators are still working to determine what caused the fire.
The building suffered multiple interior and roof collapses and was deemed a total loss by investigators, fire officials said.
Firefighters remained at the scene overnight, working to extinguish hot spots and monitor the structure and will continue monitoring the area on Friday.
The response included dozens of Pasco County Fire Rescue personnel, along with units from the Pasco Sheriff's Office, Tampa Fire Rescue and Hillsborough County Fire Rescue.
The American Red Cross and Pasco County Emergency Management are helping the approximately 200 displaced residents with immediate needs and connecting them with available resources.
The apartment complex is also accepting donations for residents affected by the fire.
"We are continuing to collect donations for our displaced neighbors at the leasing office. Gift cards, new clothing, toiletries, pet supplies, blankets, food, water, and everyday essentials are greatly appreciated," Cobalt Apartments staff wrote in a social media post.
Donations can be dropped off at 4338 Cobalt Brook Blvd. in Wesley Chapel.
"Yesterday, our Cobalt community experienced an unimaginable loss. 83 of our neighbors lost their homes in the fire," Cobalt Apartments staff wrote. "To our residents who were impacted: we are here for you. We know there are no words that can replace what was lost, but please know you will not navigate what comes next alone."
The staff continued, "To the residents who immediately stepped up to help your neighbors, offering clothing, food, childcare, rides, supplies, places to stay, helping with pets, bringing food to our team, and simply asking, 'What can I do?'… Thank you. Watching this community take care of one another during such a heartbreaking day is something our team will never forget."
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