N.L. apartment complex burns

A massive, fast-moving fire at a public housing complex has forced about 35 people out of their homes in a blaze that sent large plumes of smoke billowing above St. John’s, N.L.

Fire platoon Chief Brian Tucker said Tuesday they were called to the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Authority apartment units on Froude Avenue at about 6 p.m. Monday, finding flames spewing out of the second storey.

“We were there three to four minutes after it started and it was fully engulfed,” he said from the scene. “The fire spread very rapidly.”

Everyone in the 12-unit complex was evacuated, but Tucker said one person was taken to hospital to be treated for possible smoke inhalation and other injuries. He said some pets were reported missing.