Fire at Indianapolis Homeless Veterans Shelter Ruled Accidental
Source: Indianapolis Fire Department
INDIANAPOLIS–The fire Saturday night at the Helping Veterans and Families veterans service organization and homeless veterans shelter was accidental.
“The origin of the fire started in the attic, but they have yet to determine the actual ignition source of that fire,” said Indianapolis Fire Department Battalion Chief Rita Reith Tuesday afternoon.
It’s known as the Colonel Donald W Moreau, Sr. Veterans Community Center in downtown Indianapolis.
Reith also said the investigation has changed hands.
“IFD and the ATF have completed their involvement in the investigation and have turned the scene back to HVAF management & their insurance company,” said Reith.
The community outreach is something Reith says has been a very good thing to see.
“We’re still working with HVAF management and along with many community groups that have reached out to relocate the veterans and make sure they are well taken care of. Everyone has been great to work with,” said Reith.
Thirty-five Indianapolis Fire Department units were called in to handle the fire coming out of the two-story building on Sunday. The fire was fully under control by 1 a.m. Sunday, about three-and-a-half hours after the fire began.
All fire alarms were working.
Fifty-one veterans were displaced, with most being put up in nearby hotels. Thirty-nine units were a complete loss. Three people were sent to Eskenazi Hospital with slight injuries.
Helping Veterans and Families released the following statement:
“All 48 veterans have been accounted for and are being taken care of in hotel rooms around the city. We are coordinating with community partners to provide the appropriate support. Critical needs include permanent housing options, access to essential food, clothing, and hygiene items, cell phones, and transportation.
