University of California, Riverside fire update: Videos show massive blaze at student apartment complex

Videos circulating on social media showed thick black smoke and flames engulfing parts of the building.

Update: More than 100 people, including students, were displaced after a fire tore through an apartment complex near the University of California, Riverside, on Friday, according to Fox 11.

Fire breaks out at University of California, Riverside. (Unsplash)

The blaze was reported at approximately 11:11 a.m. at the University Riverside Garden Apartments in the 3900 block of Iowa Avenue, between University Avenue and Everton Place, according to the New York Post.

Riverside Fire Division Chief Greg White told The California Post that the blaze impacted about 50 of the complex's 112 units.

Although the apartment complex is not owned or operated by UC Riverside, university officials said they are working to identify and assist any students affected by the fire.

“While the affected property is not owned or operated by UCR, the university is working to determine how many UCR students reside at that location and provide resources and basic needs,” a spokesperson told The California Post.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Approximately 150 residents were evacuated from the complex. All occupants escaped safely, and no injuries were reported. Firefighters also rescued three cats and reunited them with their owners, Fox11 reported.

An evacuation center was established at the Stratton Community Center at Bordwell Park to assist displaced residents.

Initial report: A fire broke out at a University of California, Riverside student apartment complex on Friday. According to CBS News, the blaze erupted at Iowa Garden Apartments, located at 2996 Iowa Avenue in Riverside. Videos circulating on social media showed thick black smoke and flames engulfing parts of the building. Authorities have not reported any injuries, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.