Seniors Learn They Can't Return Home After Damaging Fire
LITTLETON, Colo. (CBS4)- More than 100 seniors will not be able to return home after a damaging fire ripped through their apartment complex in Littleton.
They learned the news on Tuesday night and many are worried they have no where to go. They also must get their belongings out of the Southview Place Towers quickly.
"When I leave here I'm going to get me a cup of coffee and that will help me think a lot better," said John Lewis, a 75-year-old who isn't sure where he is headed next.
The fire broke out on April 6 at the complex located at 5820 South Windermere Street in Littleton.
"I've been staying in a motel but I have to abandon that in the next day or two," said Lewis.
The residents had been hopeful they would be able to return home after the fire cleanup and investigation. Unfortunately they were told by management during a special meeting on Tuesday night that they won't return home and their leases will be terminated.
"As soon as we knew we felt an obligation to let them know immediately and to the fullest extent that we know now we let them know everything we know," said Southview Place Towers spokesman Andy Boian.
More than 100 units will need to be cleaned out within 10 days.
"I'm not quite sure how I'm going to do all of this so it's throwing me into a tailspin because I want to be able to help my mom," said one resident's daughter.
For many fear swirls around the idea of not being able to find a home. On a fixed income and in an historically tough housing market in the Denver metro area, it's not only scary but emotionally draining for some.
The American Red Cross and other community agencies are helping to relocate some of the residents. The building management will donate $500 per unit, return the renters' deposits and the prorated rent for the month.
What caused the fire is under investigation.
Karen Morfitt Joined the CBS4 team as a reporter in 2013. She covers a variety of stories in and around metro Denver. Connect with her on Facebook, follow her on Twitter @karenmorfitt or email her tips.
