Dozens displaced after discarded smoking materials causes apartment fire in south Charlotte

Dozens of people were evacuated Tuesday morning after a fire broke out at the Beacon Hill Apartments in south Charlotte, which is off South Boulevard near Tyvola Road.

The fire broke out just after 3:30 a.m. When crews arrived, they found smoke and fire coming out of the building. Channel 9′s Almiya White arrived on the scene shortly after 4 a.m. and could see residents standing outside.

Officials said the fire started due to discarded smoking materials. A total of 40 people were displaced and assisted by the Red Cross.

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White could see heavy damage to the second and third floors in what appeared to be the middle of the complex. Fire officials said they had to keep 75 to 80 people out of their homes until the fire was fully extinguished.

Channel 9′s Chopper Skyzoom flew over the building and could see heavy damage where the fire started.

The Charlotte Fire Department said the fire was controlled in 25 minutes and no one was hurt.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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