Woman dead, at least 20 apartments damaged in southwest Houston fire, officials say

FOX 26 photographer shares on-the-ground look at Houston apartment fire

FOX 26 photojournalist Matt Williams spoke on the two-alarm fire near West Bellfort Avenue and Fondren Road.

HOUSTON - A woman is dead and other residents are displaced after a two-alarm fire at a southwest Houston apartment complex.

Houston: Apartment fire near West Bellfort, Fondren

What we know:

The fire was at a complex on Braesridge Drive, near West Bellfort Avenue and Fondren Road. It was reported shortly before 5 p.m. Friday.

Houston Fire confirms a second alarm was called to bring more manpower to the scene.

Two-alarm fire on Braesridge Drive in southwest Houston.

Crews arrived to heavy smoke and fire, and the third floor was completely engulfed in flames.

The wind also had the fire spread to three buildings, and reports of collapsed floors and roofs made it difficult for crews to put out the fire.

Officials confirm one woman has been pronounced deceased.

Another woman was reportedly taken to a hospital for smoke inhalation. A man allegedly reported smoke inhalation and chest pain, but declined treatment.

Dept. Chief Shift Commander Bryan Sky-Eagle estimated 20–30 units were damaged by the fire, leaving multiple elderly residents displaced. Organizations are said to be on the scene assisting those residents.

There were reports of people missing during the fire, but officials say all  of those people are accounted for.

What we don't know:

The deceased woman has not been identified at this time.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Houston FD provides free fire alarms

What you can do:

Dept. Chief Sky-Eagle says the apartment complex has a very good alarm system, and an 80-year-old resident was able to escape after her smoke alarm woke her up.

The deputy chief mentioned that Houstonians who can't afford a smoke alarm can get one installed for free through the Houston Fire Department. Click here for more information.

As we approach the colder months, Dept. Chief Sky-Eagle also recommends people check on their carbon monoxide detectors, especially since carbon monoxide doesn't have a smell.