ATHENS-Athens Fire and Rescue Chief James Hand said the initial investigation indicates this morning’s fire at Tanglewood Apartments started in an attic because of an electrical issue.
“Eight units were impacted by the fire,” he said. “Four are a total loss.”
Hand said the other four units sustained smoke and/or water damage.
“One unit was vacant, so a total of seven families have been displaced,” he said.
Hand said Red Cross was on the scene to provide the families assistance.
Hand said one of the firefighters talked to the football players from Lindsay Lane Christian Academy, and the players reported they saw smoke as they drove by the area.
“They started knocking on doors to get people out, and that was right before we arrived,” he said.
Mayor Ronnie Marks and LLCA Principal Andrew McCombs commended the young men.
“This highlights our great community and shows how responsible these young men are,” Mayor Ronnie Marks said. “What an example they set on a day like today – the 25th anniversary of 9-11. I appreciate our crews responding quickly and doing a great job controlling the fire. We are thankful no one was hurt.”
Principal McCombs said the players rushed into his office after lunch to share with him the story.
“I’m not a bit surprised by their actions,” he said. “This is who they are to their core. This is what I know of them to be capable of. We are really proud and glad they are representing LLCA in our community.”
