CARY WILLIAMS
abcactionnews.com
Reprinted with Permission

TAMPA, FL -- Fire at a Tampa complex has left more than 50 people without homes.

The 3-alarm blaze broke out at the Waterman's Crossing Apartments at 4500 North Rome Avenue shortly Monday morning.

At least six units were destroyed and as many as two dozen more were damaged to varying degrees by smoke and water.

Flames had broken through the roof on one side of the complex when units arrived around 8:15 a.m.

About 60 firemen fought the blaze, which was brought under control around 9 a.m.

There were no injuries and no word on how the fire started.

Neighbors say they are suspicious, saying it was the second fire at the complex within a month. Several said they had very little time to get out.

"When I woke up, I smelled smoke and I was coughing. I ran into the room to get my sister and smoke was already coming through into her room," said Brandy King.

The Red Cross will help those displaced by the fire.

The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

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