Thea Digiammerino

Residents Jumped From Second-Story Windows During Stratford Fire

Several people had to jump from second-story windows during a fire at an apartment building in Stratford Wednesday.

Crews were called to an apartment building at 685 Success Avenue at 4 p.m. Stratford and Bridgeport crews responded.

Police said when crews arrived there were still residents in the building.

“Some people were forced to jump from the second floors. There were some minor injuries. They were transported to local hospitals for treatment," said Capt. Frank Eannotti of the Stratford Police Department.

Neighbors were stunned when they saw the flames ripping through the building.

“I ran out of my apartment pounding on all of the doors and screaming for everybody to get out of the building,” said Gregory Cordone of Stratford.

Fire officials said the heat made the call a challenge.

“Firefighters get sapped of energy right away. So there was a lot of heat-related injuries. That’s why we call in so much extra manpower so we can relieve them right away," said Bridgeport Fire Chief Richard Thode.

One firefighter was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

Police said four people, including that firefighter, were injured. The injuries do not appear to be life-threatening.

Hours after the inferno, it was an emotional night as cats were reunited with their owners, somehow those cherished pets survived.

“It was so high. I never saw something like that,” said Rose Curran.

Officials said at least 50 people live in the building, part of which was heavily damaged. Firefighters said about half of the 28 units are damaged.

“The far end of the building is heavily, heavily damaged. The entire roof is burnt off. There are floors collapsed in," Thode said.

The American Red Cross was notified to assist the displaced residents. In the meantime, water coolers, misting fans and buses with air conditions were brought in for fire crews and residents.

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