JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A large apartment fire in Jacksonville Thursday morning, November 5, 2026, damaged 12 units and displaced approximately 11 residents after flames spread through multiple floors and ignited a propane tank on a second-floor balcony.
Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) crews from Engine 54 encountered heavy fire when they arrived at the apartment complex off Old St. Augustine Road.
As firefighters worked to contain the flames, a propane tank on a second-floor balcony caught fire, intensifying the blaze.
With flames spreading through the building, incident commanders called for a second alarm, bringing additional firefighters and equipment to the scene.
A total of 35 JFRD units responded to the emergency.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control in approximately 30 minutes.
Firefighters Rescue Pets and Retrieve Medications
During the response, firefighters rescued multiple pets from the affected apartments.
Crews also returned to damaged units to retrieve essential medications for residents who had been forced to evacuate.
One person was evaluated for smoke inhalation, while a firefighter was transported for medical evaluation as a precaution.
The fire affected 12 apartment units and left an estimated 11 residents displaced.
Red Cross Assisting Displaced Residents
Five divisions within JFRD participated in the emergency response.
Fire suppression crews worked to extinguish the flames, while rescue personnel provided medical care and monitored firefighters’ health at the scene.
The department’s Fire Prevention Division assisted with damage assessments, and Administrative Services provided additional support.
JFRD’s Emergency Preparedness Division is coordinating with the American Red Cross and apartment property management to assist displaced residents with immediate needs and recovery efforts.
“Our thoughts are with the residents whose homes and belongings were impacted by this morning’s fire,” the department said.