10 firefighters treated for heat exhaustion during Wharton apartment fire

WHARTON – A fire caused extensive damage to an apartment complex in Wharton.

The fire broke out around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Briar Pointe Apartments in the 1700 block of  Briar Lane. 

When firefighters arrived, flames and heavy smoke could be seen shooting from the roof of the two-story building. Officials said the fire spread through the attic and destroyed the entire second floor. 30 units on the floor have fire damage. A total of 55 apartments were affected by water, smoke or fire damage.

High heat and humidity made it difficult for crews to fire the flames. Ten firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion. One firefighter was taken to the hospital for heat stroke.

No other injuries were reported.

Nine fire departments were called in to assist.

The Red Cross set up a shelter at the College Heights Baptist Church at 1550 Briar Lane to help those who were displaced.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.