The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD) responded to a major fire at a five-story multifamily apartment building on Howell Mill Road NW on July 27, 2024, at 6:22 p.m.
The fire started on the rooftop during an unsanctioned party with over 100 attendees.
According to AFRD, the blaze was likely ignited by a propane grill filled with charcoal, which violated building safety protocols.
Over 80 AFRD members from 32 fire units, including engines, trucks, heavy rescue, EMS, and command teams, were involved in extinguishing the fire.
The firefighters used more than 250,000 gallons of water over two hours to control the fire, which spread rapidly due to a combustible rooftop deck and an unprotected roof membrane.
Fire Chief Roderick M. Smith emphasized the importance of maintaining fire safety standards: “The failure to maintain essential fire safety measures and the presence of an unsanctioned party with hazardous equipment underscores the need for property owners to ensure compliance with safety standards.”
He added: “This disregard for fire regulations not only endangers lives but complicates our emergency response efforts.”
The property was returned to the owners on July 28 at 12:27 p.m. Structural evaluations are ongoing and are the responsibility of the property owners.
The fire remains under investigation, and anyone with information is encouraged to call the Georgia Arson Control Tip Line. All tips are anonymous.
No lives were lost in the fire, and AFRD successfully rescued multiple pets.
However, one AFRD member experienced heat exhaustion and received treatment on-site.
The Mayor’s Office has collaborated with community partners, including the American Red Cross and Goodwill of North Georgia, to provide emergency relief, clothing, and food to the affected residents.
Impacted residents can receive assistance at the American Red Cross headquarters at 1955 Monroe Dr. NE on August 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The community partners are committed to supporting those affected by the incident.
AFRD urges property owners to prioritize fire safety and implement proper controls to prevent future incidents.
The department stresses the need for adherence to fire safety protocols to safeguard lives and property.
The investigation into the fire is ongoing, and AFRD continues to highlight the importance of compliance with safety standards.
On July 27, 2024, the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department responded to a major fire at a five-story apartment building on Howell Mill Road NW.
The fire began during an unsanctioned rooftop party and was likely ignited by a propane grill filled with charcoal.
Over 80 AFRD members were involved in extinguishing the fire, which required more than 250,000 gallons of water.
Fire Chief Roderick M. Smith emphasized the need for property owners to maintain fire safety standards.
No lives were lost, and multiple pets were rescued.
The Mayor’s Office and community partners are providing emergency relief to affected residents.
The fire remains under investigation.
