PULLMAN – The Pullman Fire Department and the WSU Police Department responded to an early-morning fire Saturday at Chief Joseph Village, university-owned apartments located on northeast Terre View Drive.
Investigation by the Pullman Fire Department has determined the fire was accidental.
No one was injured in the fire. In Building D, which houses about 24 residents, 12 units were evacuated. Residence Life officials were working with residents Saturday morning to find alternative housing.
The Pullman Fire Department received the call shortly before 5 a.m. Both Pullman stations responded and were assisted by elements from District 12 and Moscow. WSUPD assisted in evacuating residents.
When fire units arrived, they found an upper apartment in the building fully involved in flames. Firefighters were able to prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring buildings.
Most of the fire damage was restricted to the western half of Building D, but there was smoke throughout the structure.
Pullman Fire Department officials continue to investigate. After the fire was extinguished, firefighters began escorting residents back into the building to gather belongings.
WSU Housing and Dining Services brought food to the affected residents Saturday morning and WSU President Elson S. Floyd met with the residents at the village’s community center, which is serving as a meeting place and staging area.
Chief Joseph Village was built in the early 1970s. It includes eight buildings.