FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Springfield Fire Department was dispatched to an early morning fire at the Forest Hills Apartments in the 2900 block of East University Street, which left one victim dead. The fire was reported to 9-1-1 at 4:54 a.m. The fire is currently under investigation by the Springfield Fire Marshal’s and the medical examiner is on scene.

Crews arrived within minutes to find heave fire coming from the building and neighbors reporting that there was someone still trapped in the fire. The fire department was able to bring the fire under control; however it resulted in heavy fire damage to the two-story unit. The apartment complex has 12 units, which has left many displaced. The American Red Cross is on scene and assisting the residents with their immediate needs.

As more details become available, an additional release will be provided.

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For more information, contact: Fire Chief David Hall, (417) 838-4730.