Fire in New Hall South laundry room last night

7:08 AM

In the late evening, a fire in a dryer located in New Hall South residence hall caused the evacuation of all residents.

There were no injuries. Residents were able to gather in New Hall North while the fire department responded and while damage was assessed. Throughout the evening, residence hall and other university staff assisted students and provided options for overnight stays.

"We are making sure our students have the support and resources they need," said President Phil Oldham. "I'm grateful for the fire department for responding quickly and minimizing the damage and to our Residential Life staff and others who worked diligently to contact and find solutions for students." 

About 320 students live in New Hall South, and most were able to return to their rooms within hours.  

With the laundry facilities located on the second floor of New Hall South, both the first and second floors received extensive water damage. There were two rooms that were heavily damaged by water, and the residents living in those rooms will be moved to New Hall North for the remainder of the semester.

Approximately 120 students stayed in New Hall North last night while cleanup and repairs were made, and are expected to be able to return to New Hall South by 8 a.m. this morning. 

The university will cover the cost incurred by students because of the incident. About 50 Residential Life staff and other university employees worked to contact and help all students affected.

Students and families can call 931-372-3414 for more information and assistance.