ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Firefighters rescued two people from a burning apartment building Saturday night in southeast Albuquerque, as crews raced to contain flames and search for occupants who were feared trapped.
Albuquerque Fire Rescue was dispatched to a multi‑family, multi‑story apartment complex in the 1200 block of Dickerson Drive Southeast around 7:27 p.m. after reports of a structure fire and possible occupants inside. When the first engine arrived, crews reported heavy smoke and flames coming from a second‑floor apartment and declared a working fire.
Firefighters quickly began suppression efforts and conducted a primary search of the building. One occupant was rescued from inside the structure, treated at the scene for injuries, and transported to a local hospital. A second individual was rescued from the second story and safely guided down by ladder.
The fire was brought under control within approximately 15 minutes, but officials say the damage was extensive. Due to fire damage, suppression efforts, and utility shutoffs, all 16 units in the building were rendered uninhabitable, including 13 units that were occupied at the time of the fire.
Apartment management is working with the American Red Cross and other agencies to assist displaced residents with temporary housing and resources.
No additional civilian injuries were reported, and no firefighters were hurt during the response. Fire investigators have been called in, and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
