ST. JOHNS, Fla. — Fire crews from St. Johns County and Jacksonville responded about 9 p.m. to a fire at The Blake at St. Johns, a senior living facility on County Road 210 in St. Johns County.
By 10 p.m., the fire caused by a lightning strike was under control, said a spokeswoman for St. Johns Fire Rescue. Naff said about 50 residents were being displaced, mostly due to water damage. One person was taken for medical treatment.
Chris Naff, a department spokesman, said the lightning struck the roof and fire spread down a chimney. Fire apparatus, police cars and ambulances encircled the facility while crews worked to contain the blaze.
Naff said buses and vehicles of family members were at the site to help transport displaced residents affected by the fire.
The fire occurred in the facility’s west side, and personnel were temporarily sheltering affected residents in the east side as plans were being made to house displaced residents, Naff said.
The Blake at St. Johns, located near I-95, is a senior living center that offers assisted living, memory care, and 24-hour nursing care to its residents.
The facility is licensed for 137 beds. St. Johns fire officials said 128 residents and another 75 staff members were being sheltered in place during the fire event.
He said nursing homes in the area and the American Red Cross are assisting with housing and providing care for residents.
Action News Jax is on scene and will provide an update when more information becomes available
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