A devastating fire broke out at the Cobalt Apartments in Wesley Chapel after a lightning strike ignited the structure. The blaze forced the evacuation of over 90 units and displaced approximately 200 residents who now require emergency assistance. Firefighters from multiple departments worked together to contain the flames, which had been burning for about 25 minutes before emergency services arrived. Despite the significant damage, no injuries were reported among residents or firefighters during the incident. The condemned building is expected to collapse soon due to structural instability caused by the intense fire.
Key Points:
- A lightning strike started the fire in the 3900 block of Jermyn Loop shortly after 3 p.m. Thursday
- Firefighters evacuated more than 90 units and displaced about 200 residents from the apartment complex
- Six animals including cats, dogs and birds remain unaccounted for on the top level of the building
- The American Red Cross and Pasco County Emergency Management are helping displaced residents with immediate resources
- Fire Rescue Chief Ryan Guynn stated the fire had about a 25-minute head start before anyone called 911
