Massive fire rages in Amherst apartment complex, displacing 230

Massive Fire Ravages Amherst Apartment Complex

A large fire broke out Friday night at the Olympia Place apartment complex near the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus, displacing an estimated 230 residents.

Fire Spread and Response

The blaze began in a building still under construction and quickly spread to adjacent buildings by late Friday night, according to the Amherst Fire Department. Multiple fire crews from the region joined efforts to control the flames. Despite the severity, no injuries were reported.

"The fire was reported about 8:19 p.m. in a building still under construction, which has since collapsed."

Several buildings were affected, with parts of some collapsing. Fire officials also confirmed the collapse of a construction crane amid the flames and reported multiple explosions, likely caused by construction fuel tanks.

Impact on Residents and Support Efforts

Most residents of the complex are students, and the university confirmed the fire started near a construction site off-campus before spreading. The town, university, aid organizations, and property managers are collaborating to assist the displaced individuals.

"Firefighters from around the region came to help put out the flames."

The fire continued burning into Saturday morning, as firefighters worked to fully contain it.

Location and Visuals

Video footage from east of the main UMass Amherst campus showed intense flames engulfing the structures.

"Video from the scene, east of the center of the main UMass Amherst campus, showed heavy flames."

The cause remains under investigation, with efforts ongoing to support those affected.

Author’s summary: A devastating fire at an Amherst apartment complex displaced 230 people, mostly students, with significant structural damage and ongoing emergency response efforts.

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NBC Boston NBC Boston — 2025-11-08

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