Firefighters responded to a 911 call reporting a fire at the Ruby M. Rouse Housing Community Tuesday morning around 7:10 p.m., the Fire Service reports. Two units from the Herbert L. Canegata Fire Station station initially responded, and an additional unit from the Renceliar I. Gibbs Fire Station (Cotton Valley) later traveled to assist, according to a release from the Fire Service.
Once at the scene, first arriving crews reportedly observed smoke coming from a second story apartment and commenced firefighting operations. They were later joined by a fire crew from the Cotton Valley Fire Station. Using about 1,200 gallons of water, fire personnel extinguished the fire within 30 minutes, officials say.
The occupant of the residence was reportedly overcome by smoke and was given medical attention. Although fire personnel were able to contain the fire to a southeastern bathroom, adjacent rooms sustained smoke and water damage. The American Red Cross, which assists victims of fire was notified. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
