Killeen Fourplex Fire Required Aerial Control Effort

UPDATE: We now have more information about this morning's fourplex fire in Killeen courtesy of Killeen Fire Department spokesman James Chism.

According to Chism, fire units were dispatched to 2012 Cedarhill Drive at 3:31 AM Thursday - two engines, a rescue truck, an ambulance, a command vehicle, and an aerial truck. 21 total firefighters and personnel were present.

When firefighters arrived, they spotted heavy flames in an upstairs apartment. The fire was contained to and extinguished in that apartment, but the other apartments sustained smoke and water damage.

Investigators have determined that the fire was caused by an unattended pot of grease left on the stove of the burned apartment. They've ruled it accidental.

Eight children and six adults were safely outside the apartments when fire crews arrived. Chism said those families will receive clothing, food, housing, and financial assistance from the Red Cross.

14 people were evacuated from a Killeen fourplex early Thursday morning.

Chelsea Edwards with our news partners at News Channel 10 reports that Killeen firefighters were called to the complex on Cedarhill Drive around 3:30 AM. They were greeted by a massive fire so intense that an aerial effort was made to bring it under control.

Thankfully, four families living in the fourplex made it out safely. Unfortunately, they're now without homes. They're currently receiving aid from the Red Cross.

Investigators believe the fire started in a top-floor apartment of the building. The cause of the fire remained under investigation Thursday morning.

Earlier this month, we "sprang forward" for daylight saving time. This typically serves as a time for firefighters to remind us to check that our smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Give yours some attention today. It only takes a few moments, and it could save your family's lives.