UMass Amherst Supports Residents Displaced by Olympia Place Fire
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is providing free dining, housing assistance, and an emergency resource center for approximately 230 residents displaced by a fire at the Olympia Place apartment complex.
Fire Incident and Impact
The three-alarm fire began late Friday night, damaging the Olympia Place complex and continuing into early Saturday. The Amherst Fire Department reported around 230 residents affected, most of whom are UMass Amherst students.
“The university is grateful for the support of the multiple agencies that have responded to this tragedy, especially those first responders from the surrounding communities who answered mutual aid calls.”
Fire Details and Response
The fire was first reported at approximately 8:19 p.m., when 911 callers alerted authorities about a blaze at a four-story building under construction adjacent to Olympia Place. The fire quickly spread to nearby apartments overnight.
- Multiple explosions occurred, likely caused by fuel tanks at the construction site.
- A construction crane collapsed during the incident.
- Second and third alarm mutual aid calls were issued to towns in Hampshire, Hampden, and Franklin counties.
- Firefighters remained on scene until at least 3 a.m.
- Tanker trucks from various communities were used to increase water supply.
University Assistance Efforts
UMass Amherst is focusing on meeting the immediate needs of displaced residents with essential services and support.