Independence Fire/EMS responds to an early morning fire at an apartment complex. IFD responded to a fire alarm at 601 S. Penn at 1:25am this morning. Arriving units reported flames coming from a 3rd floor apartment. Tower 1 immediately began fire suppression and rescue with four reported missing occupants.

A rescue was performed from the burning apartment and the patient was transported to Labette Health in Independence. All other tenants were assisted from the building and accounted for. The fire was contained to one apartment with smoke throughout the building. Occupants have been temporarily placed at Penn Terrace community room while the facility staff evaluates the situation and safety for residents to return to their apartments. Independence Rural and Independence Police Department assisted on the call. The fire is under investigation by the IFD.