Orange County, Fl., At 11:05 p.m., the Orange County Fire Rescue's Communications Center received multiple calls for an apartment fire at 2635 Hunt Club Lane, near UCF.  Callers stated they could see heavy flames and could hear explosions coming from an apartment.

Orange County Firefighters quickly arrived on scene within 3 minutes.  The first arriving Company Officer reported a 2 story wood frame quadplex apartment with heavy flames showing through the roof.  Due to the close proximity of other surrounding buildings (i.e. life safety and property exposures), a 2nd alarm was immediately requested; a second alarm adds extra equipment and manpower to the call.

Neighbors reported hearing loud explosions when the fire started. It was later determined by our firefighters that the explosions were caused by fire impingement to several propane tanks located on the rear porch.

"This fire was a very dangerous for firefighters because the fire was already in the attic when we arrived, so we had to fight it offensively from the outside.  Our firefighters did an excellent job in preventing further property damage," stated Battalion Chief Tammy Wunderly.

The fire was reported under control in approximately 45 minutes.   A resident later arrived on scene with the absolute fear that their 2 dogs and 3 cats had perished in the fire.  However, a neighbor reported that she was able to remove both dogs and had them in her apartment; sadly 3 cats perished.

The Fire Marshall was called to further investigation the cause of this fire.

Orange County Fire Rescue Department, an accredited fire department, is committed to ensuring the health and safety of our community.