Two people died and seven people were treated Monday evening at Reid Health after a fire at a Richmond senior apartment complex.
The injured included two firefighters.
Reid Health implemented its mass casualty plan after the fire broke out at Interfaith Apartments at North West Fifth and West Main streets.
Hospital officials confirmed one person brought in died, one was found dead at the scene, and seven others were being treated for smoke inhalation and other complications late Monday.
The mass casualty plan, called a “Code Green” at Reid Health, is implemented at the discretion of the emergency department based on whether staffing can handle a sudden influx of patients. When called, extra staff is notified including physicians and other support team members.
Hospital officials said the code was cleared at about 6:45 p.m. when all patients had been received and were in treatment.
“We at the City of Richmond would like to express our grief for the lives lost in the Interfaith Apartment fire last night,” Richmond Mayor Dave Snow said in a statement on social media Tuesday. “It is never easy for our team of first responders to charge headfirst into danger and see a loss of life. We’d like to wish a full recovery to those injured, and send a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to all those who acted with courage to prevent more fatalities. Our hearts go out to the families who must deal with this loss during the holiday season.”
Snow noted Reid Health is offering grief support for those affected. For more information, call (765) 983-3344 or go to https://www.reidhealth.org/support-groups/grief
In addition, 2nd Chance Animal Rescue of Richmond says many families and their animals were displaced because of the fire. Those affected by this tragedy and need assistance with food, litter, crates, etc., are asked to contact the rescue via Facebook message or (765) 914-6510.