Lightning strick causes attic fire in apartment building

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) -- The Fort Wayne Fire Department has determined the cause of a fire at Autumn Creek Apartments early Monday morning, which caused crews to evacuate the building.

Just before 2:30 a.m. Monday, Fort Wayne firefighters were called to 2026 Ardmore Avenue on the city's southwest side for a fire at Autumn Creek Apartments.  Dozens of residents were forced to leave their apartments after a resident spotted smoke from an unknown source, according to a fire department report.

Crews were quickly able to extinguish the fire in the attic and walls and prevent any major damage to the building.

Residents of building 2026 and 2030 were evacuated from the building while crews put out the fire and determined the fire had not spread.

Officials considered a possible isolated electrical situation may have caused the fire, but later determined it to be a  lightning strike.

FWFD credits keeping the loss at a minimum in part to observant residents and the quick response by firefighters.

The structure sustained light smoke, fire, and water damage.  There were no injuries.