About 60 displaced, hundred evacuated due to massive apartment fire

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A fire at a Clayton County apartment complex forced the evacuation of nearby residents.

The fire broke out Wednesday afternoon at the Ashford Ridge Apartments located at 276 Upper Riverdale Road.

Authorities said they were forced to evacuate the complex as well as residents of the nearby Clayton Village Mobile Home Park located at 6347 Tara Blvd.

Motorists were asked to avoid the area of Tara Blvd. and Upper Riverdale Road.

SKYFOX 5 flew over the scene around 4 p.m. and found the complex gutted and even cars on fire.

Firefighter and police officers went around the complex knocking on doors and in some cases kicking in doors to make sure everyone was out safely.

Firefighters said about 60 people were displaced because of the blaze.

"We're thankful everybody's out. That's the most important thing, but then you do have now that there are families, multiple families affected for the holidays. You know, they don't have their gifts, but they don't have a sofa, a bed, clothing, and Red Cross is here to help us assist with those initial needs," said Deputy Chief Jacque Feilke, Clayton County Fire Department.

Fire officials said the wind was not on their side during the fire.

The cause is still under investigation.