Oct 29, 2024
INDIANAPOLIS — Officials have determined the fire that broke out at the veterans resource center in downtown Indianapolis on Saturday night was an accident. In a release sent Tuesday afternoon, the Indianapolis Fire Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced that the blaze at the Helping Veterans and Families building in the 900 block of Pennsylvania Street was caused by an accidental attic fire. IFD and the ATF could not determine the fire's exact ignition source. The agencies also reported that they have completed their investigation and have turned the scene over to HVAF's management and insurance company. All 39 of the building's housing units dedicated to homeless veterans were deemed total losses by IFD. The fire ultimately resulted in all 51 of the building's occupants — 48 of whom were veterans — being displaced. Photos courtesy of the Indianapolis Fire Department. After the fire, HVAF and the Red Cross indicated they were working together to find different housing options for the displaced veterans. At last check, the displaced individuals were staying at local hotels. Per IFD, three people sustained slight injuries during the fire. First responders ultimately removed 18 people from the building on Saturday night. It took them 3.5 hours to get the fire under control. Officials have accounted for all of the building's residents. As of 3 p.m. Tuesday, no fatalities related to the fire had been reported. HVAF has provided multiple options for individuals who wish to donate to help the displaced veterans. Donors can click this link or purchase items for the displaced veterans from HVAF's Amazon Wish List. On Tuesday, former Colts punter and ESPN talk show host Pat McAfee urged people to donate and help the displaced veterans. On X, McAfee also promised he would match donations worth up to $250,000 to help the veterans affected by the fire. HVAF issued the following statement on the fire on Tuesday: On October 26, at around 9:30 P.M., there was a catastrophic fire at HVAF of Indiana’s Manchester Apartments — located at 960 N. Pennsylvania Street in downtown Indianapolis. This facility serves as a transitional housing property for 48 homeless veterans. After an investigation led by The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD), it was determined that it was an accidental fire. All 48 veterans have been accounted for and are being taken care of in hotel rooms around the city. We are coordinating with community partners to provide the appropriate support. Critical needs include permanent housing options, access to essential food, clothing, and hygiene items, cell phones, and transportation. HVAF Headquarters did not sustain any damage and regular support services will proceed as scheduled, including the pantry services at the Donald W. Moreau Sr. Veterans Community Center. The pantry will be open on Tuesday and Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., ensuring that essential support continues without interruption. Additional pantry hours for the displaced veterans are also being offered throughout the week. Lauren Carpenter, HVAF Marketing and Communications Manager
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