Prairie Crossing dumpster fire sparks evacuation

By Adam Troxtell & Caleb Slinkard

On September 6, 2011

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A fire broke out in the dumpsters on the first floor of the Prairie Crossing parking garage this evening causing an estimated $3,000 worth of damage.

According to Sergeant Hill of the University Police Department, officers and personnel from the Commerce Fire Department responded to the fire at 10:25 p.m. All residents of Prairie Crossing were then evacuated from the building. The entire complex had reportedly been filled with smoke.

Sgt. Hill said when officers arrived at the scene the fire was fully involved. It was quickly contained and only affected the dumpster area on the first floor in the parking garage.

Adam Sparks, graduate student in history, said UPD had to physically pull the fire alarm, as there are no smoke detectors in the parking garage. UPD Crime Information Officer Jason Bone confirmed this and said it was because exhaust from cars would be constantly setting the detectors off. Students and residents were allowed to return to their apartments at around 11 p.m.

The cause of the fire is not known at this time, although Bone said it does appear it was accidental.

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