Hickory Fire Department responds to apartment fire at Hickory Gardens

At approximately 15:41 Monday, Jan. 27, Hickory firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire located at 1790 3rd Ave NW (Hickory Gardens). On arrival at 15:45, firefighters reported smoke and fire coming from the multi-story apartment building. With occupants still inside the burning structure, firefighters worked to evacuate residents and called for a second alarm to bring additional units to assist with the incident.  

Hickory Fire Department responded with three engines, two ladders, a rescue truck, two command units, administrative staff, and the City Fire Marshal’s Office. Catawba County EMS, Catawba County Fire Marshal’s Office, Hickory Police, and Catawba County Emergency Management also responded to the scene. To keep residents warm, two Greenway buses responded to the scene and later transported to the emergency shelter.  

The fire was extinguished and firefighters worked to remove the smoke from the structure. Fire damages were reported in two apartments; however, smoke damage was reported throughout the entire facility. One person was transported to a local hospital and several people were checked by EMS. The Red Cross was called to assist residents by setting up a shelter.    

Fire Investigators determined the fire was caused by a candle too close to combustibles.        

Hickory Fire thanks all the agencies that responded to this incident for their amazing support and assistance. The fire department also appreciates the agencies that covered emergency responses for the rest of the city.