Two weeks after a southside apartment building went up in flames, residents of suites not affected by the flames were able to see what they have left.
The fire destroyed a wing of the building. A fire wall and the work of firefighters prevented the fire from spreading.
On Wednesday, residents of eight of the units were able to return. It’s the first chance for them to see the damage.
“It does catch up with you and you break down and have to think positive and thank god for family and friends that they were there for you,” says resident Rosie Oakley, who hoped to salvage some precious memories.
“Pictures, pictures especially the older ones, the antique pictures and the pictures of the grandkids,” says Oakley choking back tears.
“We haven't heard anything,” says George Wowk, “we haven't heard any communication whatsoever, and it's been a grind.”
George Wowk lost a couple of limited edition paintings in his suite.
“A lot of crap (remains), all the furniture's done, and so, um, well what can you expect, it's a fire.”
Wowk had insurance and is now buying a house, and Oakley was happy to find all her pictures unscathed.
Residents will go back in Thursday through Saturday, 8 units at a time.
With files from Shane Jones
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