CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – New details have been released in the fire that ripped through the office building of Applegate Apartments on Monday, March 25th, prompting an investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
According to reports, the fire was reported around 11:00 am by a resident who smelled smoke and called 911. The property manager of the complex, the report said, left the office around 8:30 am that morning.
The property manager also reportedly told investigators that $10,000 in money orders was kept in the office. The reported stated stated he was working in another apartment when a resident informed him of the fire.
Adding to the investigation, multiple residents reported hearing suspicious noises coming from the office around an hour before the fire. Another resident, the sheriff’s office said, provided security footage allegedly showing an employee near the office building shortly after 9:30 am.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is currently reviewing witness statements and security footage.
The fire caused no injuries, but displaced several residents. The Red Cross is assisting those affected.
NOTE: All information for this story came directly from the report provided by the Ross County Sheriff’s Office. Police reports are public record. Any discrepancy should be directed to the reporting agency.