AUSTIN, Texas — Editor's note: An earlier version of this story stated that Capital Metro buses were on the scene to help evacuated residents. However, the buses were not needed because residents stayed warm in the complex's office.
A fire in North Austin forced more than a dozen people out of their homes early Thursday morning.
The Austin Fire Department (AFD) said a call came in about a fire at the Bent Tree Apartments on Bent Tree Road, west of MoPac and north of Steck Avenue, at about 4:48 a.m. Thursday.
AFD said the fire started on a second-floor balcony before spreading into that apartment and a unit next door, burning both units completely. The fire then moved into the attic of the entire building, so firefighters evacuated everyone inside.
A total of eight units were evacuated, with 16 people now prevented from returning to their homes. The complex's management is working with the American Red Cross to help find places for the evacuated residents to stay.
KVUE viewer Cathy Belliveau said that management opened the office to let those evacuated inside to stay warm and brought food and hot drinks as well.
"We love this place so much and hope that our friends can return soon," Belliveau said. "Great response from emergency services."
AFD said no one was hurt in the fire.