WEST JORDAN — A Friday night fire at the Cascade Springs Apartments forced nearly 75 people from their homes and left parts of the building uninhabitable, city officials said.
What happened
Firefighters were called just before 9 p.m. to the complex at 2812 W. 8580 South, according to West Jordan Fire Department Capt. Jessie McKenna. Crews from the West Jordan Fire Department worked alongside the Utah Fire Authority and units from South Jordan and Sandy to bring the blaze under control by about 11 p.m.
All occupants evacuated the building and there were no reported injuries among residents or firefighters, McKenna said. Fire personnel remained on scene into Saturday to monitor for hot spots and protect the structure from rekindling.
Damage and displacement
Most of the visible fire damage was to the third floor and the roof, while much of the building also sustained water and smoke damage as crews fought the flames. Gas and electrical service to the building were shut off as a safety precaution.
- 3–4 apartments were burned
- 8 apartments were damaged by smoke
- 12 apartments sustained some smoke damage and may be livable as soon as next week
- 24 units currently have displaced residents
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Burned apartments | 3–4 |
| Smoke-damaged | 8 |
| Some smoke damage (possible return) | 12 |
| Displaced units | 24 |
Response and resident aid
After an initial safety inspection deemed the building unsafe to occupy, city representatives and the Red Cross began assisting residents with food and temporary shelter. West Jordan Mayor Dirk Burton said inspectors were scheduled to begin more detailed evaluations Monday to determine which units are fit for reoccupation.
"We're going to have inspectors out Monday morning, finding out which units are suitable for habitation," Mayor Dirk Burton said.
Many residents found temporary lodging with family or friends, the mayor added. Those without options were connected to Red Cross resources. Resident Peter Mukru described the abrupt evacuation:
"They told us to get out of the apartment. My shoes, my phone, my wallet. That's all I got."
Operational notes
Fire crews reported that the occupants of one apartment helped limit the spread of flames by closing doors, a move that reduced fire growth but increased carbon dioxide levels inside the unit. Firefighters performed ventilation and CO2 reduction measures to make the space safe.
The West Jordan Fire Department continues coordination with mutual-aid partners and city services as recovery and inspections proceed. Officials urge residents with questions about displacement or assistance to contact city emergency services or the Red Cross.
