Displaced students wonder what’s next after apartment fire

SHREWSBURY, Mo. – Those displaced by an apartment fire late Monday night are trying to pick up the pieces Tuesday.

One firefighter was hospitalized for smoke inhalation and at least ten units were impacted at River Crest Apartments. The Shrewsbury Fire Department, along with several other departments, responded to the second alarm fire along Murdoch Avenue.

Over 30 residents were displaced, of which two dozen are students at Webster University.

“As far as we know, we have identified 21 of our students who lived at this complex. We are still trying to assess the situation. The number could go up from what we have been told by the students,” Patrick Giblin with the school said. “They have lost everything: clothes, bedding, school supplies, computers. Some of the students who showed up on campus this morning still smelled like smoke.”

A rescue operation was performed on the second floor of the building, which saved an adult and young child.

“Our crews were directed to go directly into rescue mode for two victim on the back side of the building. So our crews pulled a ladder, went to the back side of the building and  4 or 5 year old child and assisted getting an adult down the ladder,” Assistant Fire Chief Matt Wilcox said.

According to officials, many units were damaged by heavy smoke and water. Now, the students are cleaning up and trying to decide their next move forward.

“It is very scary…(my friend) was like, ‘Come out, come out, there’s smoke,’” Ayesha Rana said.

Investigators are looking into the cause of the fire but believe it started in the basement. Webster University says they will be assisting the students along with the American Red Cross.

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