Apartment fire leaves 8 displaced

A fire in Newport News left eight people displaced and an apartment severely damaged.

The Newport News Fire Department tells WAVY.com the fire happened at around 7:36 p.m. in the 400 block of Cox Landing. Investigators have not determined an exact cause but they believe it started in a bedroom of the unit.

Deputy Fire Chief Scott Fuller says there was an improperly located smoke detector which did not go off.

Those displaced included four adults and four children. There were no serious injuries.

The Red Cross provided the individuals with lodging and vouchers to buy food and some clothing.

And the Newport News Fire Department passed along a reminder that they will install free smoke alarms for any Newport News homeowner. To get one installed in your home call the “Smoke Detector Hotline” at 926-8009 to make arrangements, or visit their web site .