More than 100 firefighters were called to battle a three-alarm blaze at a high-rise condo building in Montgomery County early Tuesday after a fire broke out in a bedroom on the ninth floor.
A resident noticed the fire, pulled the fire alarm and tried to use an extinguisher but couldn't put it out, Montgomery County firefighters said.
Firefighters found heavy fire coming from a ninth-floor balcony when they were called to the 12-story Waterford Condominium at 3333 University Blvd. W. in Kensington, Maryland, about 5:15 a.m. The bulk of the fire was extinguished by about 6:30 a.m.
Firefighters helped some residents evacuate, and others were able to shelter in place inside the building, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue spokesman Pete Piringer said.
During the height of the fire, flames spread to other units. Footage from Chopper4 showed heavy fire on some balconies and smoke rising along the side of the building.
"There was some extension into other apartments, and the fire went up a little bit, too, as well, so we have some smoke conditions on some upper floors," Piringer said about 6:45 a.m.
He said he believed everyone was accounted for. No serious injuries have been reported.
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The blaze was likely sparked by a burning candle or incense or an electrical issue in the bedroom, Piringer said. The apartment was also cluttered.
Piringer said there may have been something on the balcony that was providing some fuel for the fire, such as a grill.
The westbound lanes of University Boulevard were closed between Connecticut Avenue and Veirs Mill Road. Drivers should expect significant delays and seek alternate routes, Piringer said.
Stay with NBC4 and NBCWashington.com for more on this developing story.
