Nine victims of the deadly weekend apartment fire in Westminster have been released from hospitals, three remain in critical condition and two other victims hospitalized in undisclosed conditions.
Of 16 total victims, two died in the fire early Sunday in the 1500 block of West 115th Avenue, police said Wednesday. The number of victims has slightly changed since initial reports were released, officials said Wednesday.
Investigators also have made contact with three of four individuals who reported the fire and may have been trying to put it out.
The fire at the Westbury apartments burned more than half of the 69 units in Building E, police said. Because of the age of the building — its occupation certificate was issued in 1974 — it did not have fire safety sprinklers. New construction requires sprinklers that are in compliance with the International Fire Code.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Westminster Emergency Management and Adventist Community Services of Denver announced on Wednesday a joint effort to aid victims of the fire. The Westbury Fire Donation Center will open at 8 a.m. Friday, July 26, at the Rodeo Market, 3915 W 73rd Ave., according to a news release. The center will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Aug. 19.
Suggested donations include:
- Personal hygiene items: shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hair brushes, shaving items, feminine hygiene products, laundry soap, etc.
- New clothing: underwear, socks, jean, T-shirts, jackets, shoes, etc.
- New bedding and bath items: blankets, linen, sheets, pillows, towels, wash cloths, etc.
- Housewares: dishes, pots, pans, cups, glasses, utensils, etc.
- Food: nonperishable foods and pet foods.
- Gift cards.
Online donations can be made at helpcoloradonow.org.
