A fire damaged an apartment complex off Frawley Road on Thursday afternoon.

Officials said that 16 apartments were damaged that affected 28 residents.

At approximately 4:14 pm, East Ridge Fire, East Ridge Police, and Memorial EMS were dispatched to a reported apartment fire with possible entrapment, located at 728 Frawley Rd in the 1000 building, according to East Ridge Fire Chief Mike Williams.  Crews arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the roof of the 1000 building. A second alarm was requested for additional resources and manpower.

First arriving crews started searching for victims while other crews started extinguishing the fire. Two civilians have been transported to local hospitals. Their conditions are unknown at this time.

The origin and cause of the fire is currently being investigated by both East Ridge Fire Investigators and Chattanooga Fire investigators.

The American Red Cross has been called to the scene to assist with the displaced occupants, Chief Williams said.

Mutual Aid was received from Chattanooga Squad 13, Chattanooga Ladder 13, Catoosa Engine 7, Catoosa Truck 3, Hamilton County Rescue rehab to the scene and Chattanooga Engine 5 and Rossville Engine 1 covering at our station one to answer any additional calls for service.

“We would like to express our appreciation to all of the members from Tri State Mutual Aid during this event,” Chief Williams said.

Photo courtesy of Angie Lentz posted to East Ridge TN, Friends & Neighbors