TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Fire Rescue (TFR) responded to a significant structure fire at the Bay Colony Apartments, located in the 5000 block of E. Colonial Drive, at 3:24 AM on April 5, 2025.
Upon arrival, fire crews encountered a two-story apartment building with heavy smoke and fire emanating from a second-floor apartment and the roof.
Firefighters initially launched an interior attack on the fire but were forced to evacuate due to worsening fire conditions. A second alarm was called, bringing additional resources to the scene. Crews conducted primary and secondary searches of the building and confirmed that no residents were inside the other units.
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Firefighters then transitioned to a defensive strategy, battling the blaze from the exterior using multiple hose lines and an aerial ladder. The fire was brought under control within one hour and fifteen minutes.
One civilian was evaluated at the scene and transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. No other injuries were reported to civilians or firefighters.
TFR fire investigators are currently on the scene, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Approximately twenty (20) apartments were affected by the fire. The American Red Cross has been requested to assist the displaced families from the affected residences.
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