COLUMBUS, Ind. — Investigators from the Columbus Fire Department have determined the Monday evening fire at The Fox Pointe Commons apartment complex was caused by discarded smoking materials.
Cpt. Mike Wilson says the fire originated in the patio area of 4707 Creekside Way. Interviews with the residents reveal a cigarette was discarded into a homemade plastic smoking receptacle that was placed near an exterior wall of the structure. Once ignited, the fire traveled up the vinyl siding to the soffit area. Once the soffit area was breached, the flames traveled quickly into the attic and to other apartment units.
The fire was reported at 7:30 p.m., was declared under control at 9 p.m., and the command was terminated at midnight. The Salvation Army is assisting the 14 displaced residents from the eight apartment units.
