Amherst Declares State of Emergency After Large Fire Displaces Hundreds
Amherst’s town manager has declared a State of Emergency following a massive fire Friday night that forced over 200 people to evacuate. The fire started in an apartment building under construction and spread to nearby structures.
Fire Details and Impact
The blaze at the Olympia Place apartment complex on Olympia Drive was reported around 8:15 p.m., after multiple 911 calls alerted fire crews. Responding units found the building fully engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading to adjacent buildings.
- Several explosions occurred, likely from fuel tanks at the construction site.
- A construction crane collapsed during the fire.
- One of the affected buildings has partially collapsed.
Water Usage and Conservation Efforts
More than one million gallons of water have been used to fight the fire. Town Manager Paul Bockelman urged residents to stop all non-essential water use to help conserve water needed for firefighting. Recovery of the town’s water supply is expected to take several days.
State of Emergency and Assistance
The State of Emergency declaration ensures Amherst can access emergency state and federal funds to support displaced residents, property owners, and the town itself.
"The State of Emergency will ensure the Town will have access to any emergency state or Federal funds that may be available to the displaced residents, property owner, and Town." – Paul Bockelman, Amherst Town Manager
No injuries have been reported in connection with the fire.
Summary
The large fire in Amherst caused major evacuations and structural damage, prompting a State of Emergency to secure aid and manage resources effectively.
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