Resident recalls moments before fire engulfed Providence home

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Two people were taken to the hospital after a fire on Elmwood Avenue in Providence overnight.

Their injuries are said to be minor, however, 16 people are now without a home.

“I noticed there was smoke in the hallway. We went outside along with the other neighbors, and by the time we got out, flames were pouring out of the first-floor window,” a resident told ABC6.

“Within minutes, the entire building was on fire,” she said.

ABC6 news crews observed massive flames shooting through the roof, sending thick black smoke into the sky.

Fire crews arrived just after 2 a.m. on Tuesday morning, and it took approximately an hour for them to put the fire out.

“Heavy fire was found throughout the building upon arrival. There were six families involved,” said Deputy Assistant Chief Robert Jackson.

The American Red Cross is now helping the families burned out of their home.