A fire truck parked outside the charred apartment complex. (Courtesy: Les Krifaton/FOX5)LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -
Dozens of people lost their homes to an apartment fire Thursday night and now, the community is showing their support.
Items such as clothing, food, kitchen utensils and even toys were dropped off to help the 40 people who were displaced.
"This is my neighborhood, and right around the corner I feel blessed enough to be able to give some clothes and give some things that don't fit us that someone can use," Sally Ochoa said.
According to Las Vegas Fire and Rescue, the blaze started on the second floor of an apartment unit near Smoke Ranch and Jones late Thursday night.
Investigators said a small plastic container, used for putting out cigarettes, was found at the scene and is believed to be the cause of the fire. "If that's what it was, that's a real shame. That's a real shame," said Joe Kilpatrick whose apartment was destroyed in the fire.
Fire department officials said winds fueled the flames, causing the fire to quickly spread to the attic and roof. A total of $750,000 in damage was done.
The Red Cross said over $10,000 was spent overnight in assisting victims, and they are asking for more donations. Anyone interested in helping is asked to contact the organization at 1-800-Red-Cross, text No. 90999 or visit www.RedCross.org.
Copyright 2012 KVVU (KVVU Broadcasting Corporation). All rights reserved.
