Fire displaces dozens after burning apartment complex in Bristol Township

In Bristol Township, Pennsylvania, a significant apartment fire erupted early in the morning on September 17, 2025. The blaze began around 5:30 a.m. at the Levittown Trace Apartments located on Ford Road, near Route 413. Firefighters reported that upon their arrival, the fire was already out of control, having started on the second floor and quickly spreading to other areas of the building. Heavy smoke could be seen billowing from the roof of the affected units, indicating severe damage had occurred. As the fire unfolded, multiple fire crews responded to the scene, focusing efforts on managing the flames and evacuating residents. Approximately 30 individuals were displaced due to the destruction, with about 12 apartment units deemed uninhabitable. Emergency medical services transported three firefighters and one resident to local hospitals for treatment. One firefighter suffered an arm injury resulting from a partial collapse inside a unit, while another was treated for smoke inhalation. The condition of the resident is currently unknown, but officials are working to gather more information. Chopper 3 provided on-scene aerial coverage, revealing the extent of damage to the roofing and the presence of heavy smoke. In addition to the firefighting efforts, the American Red Cross dispatched a team to assist the displaced residents, demonstrating community support in the aftermath of the tragedy. First responders were actively engaged in both battling the flames and ensuring no one remained in the building as the situation escalated. Off-duty police officer Matt Baird, who was working on his 24th birthday, emerged as a local hero during the crisis. Body camera footage captures him rushing into the burning building to rescue trapped residents. He was seen alerting individuals to evacuate, advising a person who was seen hanging from a window not to worry about his phone, but to focus on escaping. This act of bravery highlights the critical roles emergency responders play during such disasters and underscores the importance of preparedness and safety in residential living environments. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, sparking further inquiries into potential safety protocols and fire prevention measures in place at the apartment complex.