Major fire at condo complex in Bridgeport

Bridgeport, Conn. (WTNH) - People were forced to jump for their lives when fire ripped through an apartment building in Bridgeport.

The fire started at 2:30 a.m. and quickly spread, destroying everything in it's path. Some residents said if it weren't for neighbors knocking on their door, and firefighters, they wouldn't be alive.

The American Red Cross opened a shelter at the Florence Blackham Middle School on Thorme Street in Bridgeport to house those displaced by the fire.

Spokesperson Paul Shipman says more than 20 people need housing Thursday night.

"We have met with many of the families displaced by the fire and are providing financial assistance for emergency clothing and food needs," he said. "Many people had to flee so quickly that they left with only the clothes on their backs. Assistance for clothing could include shoes and coats if needed."

The unbelievable flames ripped through the Beachmont apartment complex. It's a scene many of the residents can't believe they survived. It even spread to a law office next door.

16 year-old Johan Vasquez says he, his mother, and little sister are especially fortunate. They were sleeping and didn't hear the sirens.

"We were told to get out quickly and when we were out we saw everybody outside," Vasquez said. "We knew we were the last to get out."

Firefighters say two people had to jump to their safety. Out of about 35, five people were taken to the hospital.

"An elderly man was unconscious on the first floor and removed. He was transported to the hospital as well. I understand he was breathing on his own when he left the scene," said Deputy Chief Robert Petrucelli.

Anthony Johnson and Michelle Plotkin consider themselves lucky. They were taken to the hospital, but were later released.

"The smoke was so thick I couldn't get out the front door," Johnson said. "I had to go out the balcony and the fire department threw up a ladder to get us down."

Firefighters say smoke detectors did go off, but the couple says they don't have any.

"There was some painting being done I guess and it started before I moved here and they were never put back up," Plotkin said.  

They say they lost everything, including Johnson's Harley Davidson somewhere in their garage which is now filled with water four feet high.

"I'm glad to be here," he said.

That's the attitude Vasquez and his little sister have. "She was crying at first because of her stuffed animals," he said.

However, she he was thrilled when the Red Cross handed her a new one.

Firefighters say it could take some time to determine a cause. In the meantime, the neighbors say they've already forgotten about the teddy bears and motorcycles they've lost. They're just happy to have each other.