Apartment fire in Middleburg caused by children playing with fireworks

MIDDLEBURG, Fla. — Six families in Middleburg in the Hunter’s Run apartment complex are without a home after an apartment fire. Firefighters said the fire was caused by children playing with fireworks in close proximity of the building.

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The apartment complex playground was within feet of the building that caught fight. Officials said there were thankfully no injuries caused by the fire.

Clay County shared photos with Action News Jax of those burned-out units in the aftermath of the fire.

One neighbor said the fire damaged units on all three floors. Mary Lou Hartman adds her biggest concern now is how the kids got the fireworks in the first place.

“It’s totally wrong that they got them. I know fireworks stands around here didn’t even open until last night. There is a firework store down the road, so I don’t know if they had an adult go in there and get them,” said Hartman.

She said no form of fireworks is permitted at the Hunter’s Run apartment complex, according to their lease.

The cost of the damage is still unknown, however, official said there is extensive long-term damage to the units affected.

Josh Pappas from Superior Fireworks in Orange Park stresses- make sure you do not have anything flammable nearby when lighting fireworks, including overhanging trees.

“Fireworks are a consumer class explosive. I know people get comfortable and familiar with it, but you don’t think about that. At its core, it is an explosive and it’s got chemicals in it,” said Josh Pappas, communication manager at Superior Fireworks.

City officials urge everyone to practice fireworks safety as we get closer to the new year. This includes not letting children set them off, staying away from homes and cars, and avoiding dry areas.

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