Spokane Valley fire displaces seven people

Spokane Valley firefighters responded to a blaze this morning that started in an apartment complex and displaced seven tenants. When crews arrived at the Manor Vale Apartments at 10101 E. Main Ave. about 9:30 a.m., they saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the first and second floors and requested additional crews, according to a Spokane Valley Fire Department News Release. There were no injuries in the fire, which firefighters had under control in about 16 minutes, the news release said. One cat was rescued. Two units sustained heavy fire damage that displaced four tenants. Three tenants from two adjoining units were displaced due to poor air quality in those units, but may be allowed to return Wednesday. Investigators determined the fire was accidental and caused by combustible items being placed too close to a heater, the news release said. The estimated damage will likely be more than $100,000.