Franklin, NC -- September 28, 2026: One person was rescued and hospitalized with burn injuries following an apartment fire that broke out the afternoon of Sept. 25 at the Harris Garden Apartments in Franklin.
Fire crews with Franklin Fire & Rescue were dispatched just after 1 p.m. to the complex, located at 364 Harrison Ave. Upon arrival, emergency responders located and pulled an occupant from the burning structure. Macon County Emergency Medical Services treated the victim for burns before transporting them to a local hospital. One firefighter also sustained minor burn injuries during the incident and received treatment directly on scene.
Multi-Agency Response Battles Attic Blaze
Initial units responding to the first alarm included Franklin Fire & Rescue, West Macon Fire Department, and Clarks Chapel Fire Department.
As flames penetrated the structure's shared attic space, commanders sounded additional alarms to bring in reinforcing manpower and apparatus:
Cowee Fire Department
Cullasaja Fire Department
Mountain Valley Fire Department
Otto Fire Department (provided standby coverage at Franklin's main station)
Crews aggressively attacked the flames and successfully contained the fire within the attic, halting further spread across the remainder of the residential block.
Displacement and Structural Damage
The structure contained seven occupied units. While two apartments suffered direct fire and smoke damage, two adjacent units sustained significant water damage from firefighting efforts.
Because the blaze compromised structural integrity and extensive roof repairs are necessary, residents across all seven units are currently unable to return to their homes. The American Red Cross was contacted and is actively assisting the displaced families with emergency shelter, basic supplies, and recovery resources.
Investigation Ongoing
The origin and official cause of the fire remain undetermined. A joint investigation is actively underway involving:
Franklin Police Department
Macon County Fire Marshal’s Office
North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)
Image: Franklin Fire & Rescue