The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from an apartment building at 1000 4th Avenue (Centennial Park Apartments). Upon arrival, KVFD found heavy smoke and flames coming from a window on the 2nd story of the apartment building. KVFD initiated a fire attack and a primary search of the structure.
The fire was extinguished, and no occupants were located during the search. There were three occupants in the apartment at the time of the fire. All three occupants evacuated the apartment prior to the fire department's arrival. One of the occupants attempted to put out the fire but had to exit due to the fire conditions.
KVFD was assisted by the Kearney Police Department, CHI Good Samaritan EMS, Nebraska Public Power District and Northwestern Energy. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal was called to assist KVFD with the origin and cause investigation.
The fire remains under investigation. However, the initial investigation indicates the fire was accidental and an unattended candle caused the fire. Approximately ten people are displaced due to this fire. The Red Cross was contacted to assist those displaced tenants.