A devastating fire at the Spring Manor Apartments in Manor Township, Lancaster County, resulted in the death of one person and displaced 15 residents on Thursday night (April 30). The fire, which broke out just before 9 p.m., severely damaged multiple units and required extensive efforts from local fire crews.
According to Duane Hagelgans, the Blue Rock Fire Commissioner, emergency dispatchers received multiple calls reporting flames and trapped individuals at the intersection of Millersville Road and West Fairway Drive. When firefighters arrived, they encountered heavy fire from the building's roof and both its front and rear. Despite their swift response, part of the roof had already collapsed, complicating rescue efforts.
After extinguishing the blaze, crews conducted a secondary search and discovered the body of a woman in a second-floor apartment. The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office identified her as 64-year-old Diane Bloodworth, who died from smoke inhalation and thermal burns. Her death has been ruled accidental.
The fire affected eight units, with four second-floor apartments sustaining burn damage and four first-floor units suffering smoke and water damage. The American Red Cross has been contacted to assist the displaced residents. Fortunately, no firefighters were injured during the operation.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the fire. The apartment complex mandates renters' insurance for all tenants, which may aid those affected in recovery efforts.