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South Charlotte condos burn in accidental fire; 1 firefighter hurt, authorities say

CHARLOTTE — A Charlotte firefighter was hurt responding to a condominium complex fire in south Charlotte Sunday night, according to the Charlotte Fire Department. CFD later said the fire was caused accidentally.

The flames forced families out of their homes and kept fire crews on scene for hours. It happened at the Carmel Chase condominiums on Turn Stone Court, off Johnston and Carmel roads.

Charlotte Fire said the flames broke out around 9 p.m. Sunday and it took 40 firefighters 83 minutes to get it under control. In video released from the Charlotte Fire Department, you can see smoke rising after crews knocked down the flames.

CFD said one of its firefighters was hurt and taken to the hospital but is expected to recover.

On Monday morning, many people in the community were just waking up when they spoke to Channel 9′s Gina Esposito. They said they don’t know how it started; they just saw the smoke.

Although everyone was able to get out safely, several residents were forced from their homes. The American Red Cross said volunteers are helping at least five people impacted by the fire. They are providing financial assistance for needs like shelter, food and clothes. The Red Cross is also providing mental and spiritual help to anyone needs it.

“The Red Cross will continue to stay in contact with its partners to see if any additional assistance is needed,” the organization said in a statement.

The building suffered severe fire and water damage throughout. Firefighters remained on scene through Monday morning to keep an eye on any flare-ups.

Investigators said the fire started accidentally and caused $175,000 in damage.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

(WATCH BELOW: 10 displaced in southwest Charlotte house fire, officials say)