ATLANTA - A devastating apartment fire at the Reserve at LaVista Walk apartments in northeast Atlanta has left dozens of residents displaced and searching for answers.

The fire broke out on Friday night, November 11, 2023, at around 10:30 p.m., causing mass panic among the residents. Authorities quickly evacuated hundreds of people as flames and smoke engulfed the building, forcing residents to flee for safety.

Firefighters tirelessly battled the blaze for a grueling 22 hours before finally bringing it under control on Saturday evening, November 12, 2023, at 8:30 p.m. Despite their efforts, the fire left a total of 28 residents homeless and in desperate need of assistance.

The Atlanta Police Department announced that the fire was the result of two individuals lighting fireworks on the roof of the apartment complex. Charnelle Gunn and Robert Stokes were subsequently arrested and charged with reckless conduct and criminal property damage.

"Their actions have caused immense devastation to the lives of many innocent people," remarked Myles Wilson, a witness at the scene.

Terrified residents recounted their experiences of the night. Kala Scott, a resident living on the fourth floor, recalled hearing a loud bang that shook the building. Another resident, Kitxya Larumbe, expressed shock, stating that she had never seen Gunn and Stokes before and questioned why they would engage in such dangerous behavior.

However, amidst the chaos, there were moments of heroism. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Chierbaum revealed that one of the officers stationed at the complex lost all his belongings and his pet cat in the fire. Despite this, he and his fellow officers worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of all residents by going from floor to floor to alert them to the fire.

The community response has been overwhelming, with concerned citizens stopping by throughout the night to check on the situation. Some individuals, like Myles Wilson, found themselves searching for a place to sleep, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by those affected.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens addressed the tragedy, assuring affected families that the city is committed to providing the necessary support as they seek new homes. He commended the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, Atlanta Police Department, and various agencies for their swift response, which ultimately prevented any fatalities in this large-scale fire.

The displaced residents are currently receiving assistance from the American Red Cross, with efforts being made to provide them with emergency shelter and other essential services in the weeks ahead.

As investigations continue, the community seeks to come together to support those affected by this devastating incident. The Reserve at LaVista Walk apartment fire serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of responsible behavior, particularly when it comes to the use of fireworks outside designated times and areas.