Residents Allowed To Return To Provo Condos After Thanksgiving Fire

PROVO, Utah -Dozens of families who were forced to flee from their condos because of a fast-moving fire got a chance to return to their units and salvage what was left Friday.

For Norma Bridge, there wasn’t much left at all to see. Her condo was one of the 10 in the 50-unit North Canyon Condominiums that were completely destroyed by the fire that broke out early Thanksgiving morning.

“I saw flames in my apartment and I thought get your body out of here girl,” Bridge told KSL. “I didn’t have a chance to grab my car keys.”

Fortunately for Bridge, there were some old photo albums that made it out and a precious antique water jug that’s been in the family for about 130 years.

“It was just one of the treasures I cared about,” Bridge said.

Jessica and Eric Romrell returned to their condo, which was drenched from water used to put out the fire. The room above them caved in and they were able to salvage some clothing and other items. The couple and their young son have lived in the condo for three years.

“It’s really sad. It’s just sad not to have a home,” Jessica Romrell said.

Estimated loss 3 to 4 million structure damage,Cause still under investigation but possibly electrical in the attic.
There are 48 units with 10 that are a total loss. All occupants are displaced for the foreseeable future. pic.twitter.com/ztfBsHBIYd

— ProvoFireRescue (@provofire) November 28, 2019

The fire started in the attic around 7:30 a.m. Thursday and moved quickly. Investigators were still trying to figure out a cause but said it appears to be accidental.

“It’s a very sad situation to have to deal with something like this on Thanksgiving Day,” said Jeanie Atherton with the Provo Fire Department.