Three residents hospitalised as fire engulfs Melbourne apartment building
Three people have been taken to hospital after a fire ripped through an apartment building in Melbourne's inner-east this morning.
Dozens of residents were forced to evacuate the Richmond complex, with some even smashing glass in a desperate attempt to flee.
Firefighters arrived at the three-storey complex blaze at Coppin Street just after 8.30am, following numerous reports of glass smashing and smoke.
Firefighters at the scene of the apartment complex fire in Richmond. Supplied Nine
The Richmond apartment complex on Coppin Street. Nine
About 30 residents evacuated the building, with two people rescued by firefighters.
"Initial callers said they could hear glass smashing and there is a lot of smoke with the fire getting out of control," a Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) statement said.
"FRV appliances arrived on scene within five minutes of receiving the first call.
"Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly gained access to the apartment with crews assisting in removing the occupants to safety and also knocking down the fire. "
A fire engulfed the apartment complex. Supplied Nine
Three men aged in their 70s, 50s and 30s were assessed by paramedics at the scene for possible smoke inhalation and were taken to The Alfred hospital in a stable condition.
The fire was declared under control within 20 minutes of fire crews arriving.
"A thorough search of the affected apartment was carried out with no persons located. All occupants we accounted for," the FRV said.
The cause of the fire has not been determined at this stage.
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