Two women killed in apartment fire identified

The Adams County coroner has released the names of two women killed in a Westminster apartment fire.

The women were 41year-old Lea Hamel of Venice, Fla., and 58-year-old Margaret Kelly of Westminster, according to the Adams County coroner’s office.

The fire burned more than half the 69 units in Building E of the Westbury Apartments. Because of the age of the building — its occupation certificate was issued in 1974 — it did not have fire safety sprinklers. New construction requires sprinklers that are in compliance with the International Fire Code.

On Tuesday, the Westminster police and fire departments announced that 20 members of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ national response team would be joining the investigation into the Westbury Apartment Complex fire.

Also, the city of Westminster announced Thursday that it has joined with Adventist Community Services of Denver to coordinate a donation center for the victims of the fire.

The Westbury Fire Donation Center will be at the

Rodeo Market, 3915 W. 73rd Ave. in Westminster, and will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Aug. 19. It will collect donations seven days a week. Donations needed include: • Personal hygiene

items: Shampoo, conditioner, body soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hair brushes, combs, shaving cream, razors, feminine hygiene products, basic firstaid kits, and laundry soap.

• Clothing: New underwear, socks, jeans, T-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and shoes in men’s, women’s and children’s sizes.

• Bedding and linens: New blankets, sheets, pillows, towels and wash cloths.