ROCKY RIVER, Ohio — Rockport River Condominiums in Rocky River caught fire and began billowing smoke Sunday evening, Rocky River police confirm to 3News.
The condos, located at 18117 Hilliard Blvd, were under construction and unoccupied.
At the scene, 3News confirmed that the fire spread to a neighboring building.
Several area departments responded to the scene to assist Rocky River with putting out the blaze. The first call came at about 5:57 p.m. to the Rocky River Police Department.
The buildings to the east and west of 18613 Hilliard Blvd. were both evacuated. Residents from 18625 Hilliard Blvd. are still unable to return home. The Red Cross has been in contact with those resident and is providing services. Those residents who are returning to their homes should run their water until clear.
Firefighters remain at the scene to help in the investigation and to fight any hot-spots that may reignite. The State Fire Marshal has responded and is investigating the cause of the fire.
There were approximately 80 customers without power on Sunday evening, however police confirm that power has been restored to all occupied homes and buildings in the area. Phone and cable service is still in the process of being fully restored.
The fire and its resulting smoke caused several area highways and streets to close. I-90 was shut down between McKinley and Detroit Road until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday. Hilliard Blvd. between Wooster Rd. and Riverside Dr. remains closed to eastbound traffic. One lane of Hilliard Blvd. moving westbound is open.
Witnesses say the smoke could be seen from cities away. Traffic was diverted off I-90 at Clague Road due to black plumes of smoke. The smoke was so heavy and widespread it is showing up on weather radar.
3News confirmed that the construction was being done by PrideOne Contractors out of Medina.
3News Crews are at the scene and are streaming it on our Facebook and YouTube Pages.
This is a developing story. Stay with 3News for more information as it becomes available.
