Tragedy struck in Smithville on the Fourth of July after an apartment complex erupted in flames. Firefighters battled heat and heavy smoke as 10 units of the 20-unit complex were involved.

Smithville Fire Chief Charlie Parker told the Smithville Review that at 2:59 p.m. E-911 dispatchers were notified about the blaze at 425 Kendra Drive at the Towne’s Edge Village Apartments.

Parker said that an off-duty Smithville Police officer, Cody Jenkins, and his family, first heard a neighbor’s smoke alarm. When Officer Jenkins went outside to investigate, he found heavy smoke coming from the roof of the complex. He used his radio to report the fire, then he and another officer began pounding on doors to alert all the other residents.

Everyone living in the units were able to evacuate the building safely, though according to Chief Parker, most got out with only the clothes they were wearing. Parker said that 10 units were affected, with 24 people living in those apartments.

The Smithville Fire Department, Smithville Police Department, DeKalb Sheriff’s Department, DeKalb EMS, and DeKalb Rescue Squad responded to the scene. Chief Parker said that upon arrival, the complex was fully engulfed. He reported that only a couple of apartments on the end of the building did not burn, but those received extensive smoke and water damage. The entire building was a total loss.

Chief Parker said that the cause of the fire is undetermined, but reports have been received that it may have begun by someone grilling on one of the apartment balconies. Chief Parker said that while it is not illegal to grill on a deck or balcony, it is highly recommended not to. The cause of the blaze is under investigation by the State Fire Marshal.

According to Chief Parker, most of the residents of the apartment building did not have rental insurance, and have lost all their possessions. The Murfreesboro Chapter of the American Red Cross was on hand, as well as area churches and organizations, to help the families in need.