Durham apt fire being treated as arson

DURHAM (WTVD) -- Durham firefighters rushed to the Springfield Apartments at 4600 University Drive Friday afternoon after flames began shooting from the roof of a building.

Officials said at least 18 units were destroyed and more were damaged. In all, 16 families, including 34 people, were displaced as a result of the fire.

According to the fire marshall, the fire is being treated as arson. There is no word on any possible suspects.

One of those displaced residents who was at home at the time of the fire spoke to ABC11 and described the scene.

"I smelled a smell and didn't know what it was, and a neighbor came and banged on the door and we ran out," Jermere Nickerson said. "We later found out it was an explosion."

Two firefighters were hurt while battling the blaze. Both have been treated for minor injuries and released.

Management at the apartment complex told ABC11 they will have social workers on site Tuesday to assist any residents.

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