Smoke Seen For Miles As IFD Responds To Downtown Building Fire

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — A downtown condominium building at Massachusetts Avenue and College Avenue was hurling black smoke into the Indianapolis air Friday morning after IFD says the roof's deck caught on fire. IFD reports crews were called to 757 Mass Ave Condos just after 7:10 a.m. where crews found smoke coming from the roof area of the Beilouny Building, as the smoke could be seen for miles. IFD says 15 units originally responded, followed by a second alarm of 20 additional units.

Although there were no injuries, IFD reports residents say they were alerted to the fire by sirens, as no smoke alarms were activated due to the fire being outside. The penthouse unit is under investigation, as the fire was contained to the wooden deck on top of the roof, covered by a rubber roof membrane.

According to officials, 21 of the building's 23 units are occupied, and IFD crews assisted 19 people in evacuating and retrieving personal belongings, while others evacuated on their own.

IFD says the fire was out just before 7:40 a.m., however damage to the building is estimated at $750,000, which includes water damage, as the fire didn't make it's way inside the building.

According to IFD, the biggest issue for residents when they're allowed to return to their homes will be how quickly the utilities can be returned, as well as water damage.

Residents are being sheltered at the fire union hall across the street.

Right now the cause of the fire remains under investigation, and IFD Victims Assistance is working with Red Cross for shelter for displaced residents.

More: @IFDnews

Photo credit: IFD PIO, and Jamie Rangel