Firefighters Say Building Design May Have Amplified Fire Spread At Tulsa Windsail Apartments

A 3-alarm fire at the Windsail Apartment fire near 71st and Mingo is under investigation Tuesday morning.

Firefighters have pointed out that the way the Windsail Apartments were built is one reason they went up in flames so fast. They say many of the units shared attic space and fire can travel through those spaces quickly.

The response from TFD was large with 19 engine trucks and six ladder trucks responding to the fire Monday night. Several families have been displaced because of the fire and firefighters say about 36 units appear to be damaged. The Red Cross is helping residents find another place to stay.

Andy Little with Tulsa Fire says the cause is still under investigation, but it seems accidental and may have sparked from someone disposing of smoking materials on their balcony.

"A lot of apartment fires start because of that. Most people think they have it put out and there's wind or whatever and sparks those embers so it's not for sure it's the cause but that's what we're leaning towards right now," said Little.

At least two firefighters had to be transported because of heat-related illnesses, but no residents were hurt and nobody had to be rescued.

Related Stories:

1. 'It Breaks Your Heart': Residents Displaced By Fire At Tulsa Apartment Complex
2. Authorities Battle 3-Alarm Fire At Windsail Apartments In Tulsa
3. Drone Footage Shows Smoke Pouring Out Of Apartment Complex During Fire