12000 E Colfax Ave

A vision of modern comfort nestled in a bustling Aurora neighborhood, Link Apartments Fitz promised to be a haven for city dwellers. With spacious interiors, resort-like amenities, and proximity to key destinations, it seemed poised to become a vibrant hub for professionals, students, and families alike. But on a fateful December Saturday, those dreams turned to smoke and ash as a devastating fire engulfed the unfinished complex.

The flames, consuming five floors of the Link Apartments Fitz project, sent plumes of black smoke billowing across the city skyline. Firefighters from multiple agencies raced to the scene, battling the inferno and preventing its spread to surrounding buildings. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the damage was profound. The Link Apartments Fitz, once a symbol of potential and opportunity, lay in smoldering ruins, its future now shrouded in uncertainty.

Just three days prior, flames devoured several under-construction homes near the 7300 block of South Addison Court, prompting a "volatile, highly dangerous scene" for responding firefighters. Propane tanks threatened to explode, adding another layer of peril to the already chaotic firefighting efforts. Miraculously, this inferno too, claimed no lives.

Before the fire, the project generated considerable excitement. Grubb Properties, known for its focus on resilient communities, touted the development's proximity to major employers, universities, and transit options. Link Apartments Fitz, envisioned as a beacon of "essential housing," aimed to provide much-needed accommodation for the growing Aurora population. With walkable design, a connection to the Denver light rail, and even a dedicated dog run, the complex promised a blend of convenience and comfort.

The cause of the South Addison fire, initially unknown, later took a chilling turn as investigators labelled it a "possible criminal act." The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives joined forces with local authorities, deploying specially trained investigators and even an accelerant-sniffing dog to unravel the mystery. The potential for arson cast a shadow over the tragedy, adding a layer of anger and frustration to the community's grief. Although this fire was not labeled a criminal act, the investigation is still on-going.

The Link Apartments Fitz fire was more than just a construction site blaze; it was a blow to a community preparing for growth and progress. It is a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety measures and the need for vigilance in protecting our communities.