Massive Anderson apartment blaze ruled accidental - KSLA News 12 Shreveport, Louisiana News Weather & Sports

Dozens of people were displaced Wednesday when a massive fire destroyed an Anderson apartment building.

The blaze happened about 3 p.m. at Walden Oaks Apartment Homes at 127 Allison Circle.

About 50 firefighters were called to Building 100 and were able to get the blaze under control in about 10 minutes, according to Anderson County Fire Chief Billy Gibson. He said firefighters will remain at the scene to monitor hot spots.

It was not immediately clear what started the fire, but Gibson said it may have started in one of the lower units and spread into the attic.

"Early indications are this is an accidental fire," Gibson said. "We think it may have started outside of the building, and possibly on the backside. We have talked to some witnesses."

SLIDESHOW: Firefighters battle massive Anderson blaze

On Thursday, Gibson said they had a few possible causes but could not say what caused the fire for sure, so they were ruling it an undetermined, accidental fire.

Gibson said there were no indications that the cause was intentional or criminal, so the case is officially closed unless someone comes forward with additional information that would require a reopening of the investigation.

Both The American Red Cross and The Salvation Army of Anderson County were at the scene, assisting those who lived in the 30 units that were affected by the blaze.

"It's just been traumatic," said Rodriquce Hall, a resident of the building. "To look and see everything you work hard for go up in flames."

Gibson said one firefighter was taken to a local hospital after falling, and a bystander was treated for some breathing problems. He said several pets were also rescued.

If you would like to help the families affected, you can make a donation online or at your local Red Cross or Salvation Army. You can also specify that the donation go towards the victims in Anderson.

To help residents with pets, Stacy's Groom-N-Spa collected donations. Stacy Morgan with the pet resort gave gift cards for free baths for the victims so the animals covered in soot and dirt can be thoroughly cleaned.

Residents affected by the fire can pick up the gift cards from the Walden Oaks office with proof of residence.

Morgan's business is also collecting animal-related donations for the victims. She partnered with Nature's Select of the Carolinas to help donate 7 1/2-pound dog food buckets of all natural, holistic dog food to displaced pet residents of the fire.

Additionally, the store Snapdragons and Soda Pop in Iva donated cat and dog carriers for the victims. They can be picked up at Stacy's Groom-N-Spa, which is located at 2812 East North Avenue in Anderson. Proof of address is required.

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