Large Waterbury fire displaces 15 people; governor praises rapid response

A blaze that swept through half a city block in Waterbury more than 24 hours earlier displaced 15 people and destroyed homes and businesses, Fox 61 reported. Some residents were allowed to return after safety checks while others remain displaced; the Red Cross has mobilized to assist those affected.

Residents described evacuating with little time to gather belongings. Neighbor Lola Hubbell said she and others escaped and were relieved her home was safe to return to. Fire officials described challenges in navigating renovated apartment buildings where unexpected layouts and dead-end hallways complicated the response.

Governor Ned Lamont praised first responders for a rapid arrival and a response described on-air as occurring within about two minutes, which officials said helped limit the spread and likely saved lives. Three firefighters were injured while fighting the blaze; no civilian fatalities were reported. Investigators continue to work to determine the cause.