PARMA, Ohio — Two Parma firefighters were injured Friday night after a large fire burned through the Woodbury Apartments in Parma, according to the Parma Fire Department.
Parma Fire said the fire started in the attic area around 9:30 p.m. and there was a partial roof collapse.
A Parma Police Officer was transported to a nearby hospital for smoke inhalation after entering the building to evacuate residents; a firefighter was also transported with unknown injuries. Another firefighter was treated on the scene. Multiple residents were treated on the scene for smoke inhalation.
According to Parma FD, crews made contact with residents in 20 of the 24 units.
The fire at 6150 Stumph Rd. was visible to Parma residents in the area.
Two of the buildings were heavily damaged by the flames.
All residents were displaced, and the Red Cross has been working to find temporary housing. Some residents were able to return to the building to retrieve belongings, medication and valuables.
One Parma resident sent in photos of the brutal flames.
There are no reports of casualties at this time.
News 5 crews were on the scene.
Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter released the following statement regarding the fire Saturday afternoon:
The City of Parma extends its heartfelt concern to the residents displaced by Friday evening’s fire at the Woodbury Commons apartment complex on Stumph Road. While we are grateful that no residents were injured, we recognize the serious disruption and hardship this fire has caused for families who have temporarily lost their homes. Our thoughts remain with all those affected.
The City of Parma recognizes Fire Chief Michael Lasky and the entire Parma Fire Department for their professional response under extremely challenging conditions. Strong winds and heavy fire conditions contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, yet firefighters worked aggressively to contain the blaze and protect residents, bringing the situation under control in a relatively brief period of time. A Parma firefighter and a police officer sustained injuries during the response, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Parma Police and the mutual aid fire departments that responded to assist, demonstrating the strong regional cooperation that protects our community during emergencies.
We thank the American Red Cross of Northeast Ohio for providing emergency assistance and temporary housing support to displaced residents. We also appreciate the efforts of property owner Joshua Zaremba, who has been working to assist tenants during this difficult time.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
We will continue to work with our public safety agencies and community partners to support affected residents in the days ahead. Parma is a community that comes together in times of need, and we are committed to helping our neighbors through this difficult time.
The apartment complex is accepting donations for the displaced residents at 6128 Stumph Rd. Those interested can donate gently used clothing, shoes, toiletries, gift cards and non-perishable foods. Click here to learn more.
