More than 100 firefighters worked to knock out a massive two-alarm blaze at an apartment building in the 14000 block of Castle Boulevard in Burtonsville, Md.
Seventeen people were rescued from the fast-moving fire Friday morning, which began as many were just waking up or getting ready for work.
"I felt helpless because I couldn't help them, you know, they were screaming and there was smoke pouring out all over the place," said resident Tim Chisley, who watched as family friends trapped on a balcony waited for rescue.
Firefighters were able to rescue everyone, and there were only minor injuries.
The fire broke out toward the fear of the complex, but there's no word yet on a cause. Investigators said the flames spread more quickly up the sides and to the roof because of the building's vinyl siding.
Authorities say 74 people have been displaced by the blaze.
