Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
WEST JORDAN, Utah (July 11, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Utah opened an emergency shelter Saturday to help the 77 residents displaced by a Friday night fire at a 24-unit apartment building in West Jordan. The shelter is located at West Hills Middle School, 8270 Grizzly Way.
Red Cross volunteers first opened a shelter Friday night at the Canyon View Credit Union Community and Arts Center and moved shelter operations Saturday to West Hills Middle School. The fire broke out Friday about 9 p.m. at the Cascade Springs Apartments, 2812 W 8580 S. Twelve apartments were destroyed, while the remaining 12 sustained minor damage. Utilities to the building remain shut off until a city building inspector determines it is safe for residents to return.
The Red Cross is working closely with West Jordan City officials and community partners to support the residents displaced by the fire. Red Cross disaster volunteers are meeting with families to address immediate needs, including emergency lodging, meals and clothing. Volunteers can also provide emotional support, help replace prescription medications and eyeglasses and connect families with community resources.
“Losing your home to a fire can turn your life upside down in a matter of minutes,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “Our priority is making sure families have a safe place to stay and the support they need. We will continue working alongside our partners to help the residents in the days and weeks ahead.”
Anyone affected by the fire who needs assistance can contact the Red Cross at 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Red Cross Volunteers Respond to Home Fires Across Utah
Red Cross volunteers respond to home fires across Utah, providing emergency assistance to families affected by disasters. Since 2020, volunteers have responded to 1,091 home fires and helped 4,996 people. In 2025, volunteers responded to 154 home fires, assisted 728 people and installed more than 2,000 free smoke alarms. So far this year, volunteers have responded to 82 home fires and helped 346 people.
Become a Red Cross Disaster Volunteer
Red Cross disaster volunteers support emergency shelters, respond to home fires and provide immediate assistance to people affected by disasters. With additional training and experience, volunteers may deploy to larger disaster relief operations across the country. Red Cross volunteers also support blood drives, assist military families and help communities prepare for emergencies. To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteer.
Free Smoke Alarms and Fire Safety Visits
To help reduce the risk of home fire tragedies, residents can schedule free smoke alarm installations through the Sound the Alarm campaign. During home visits, Red Cross volunteers install smoke alarms, share fire safety information and help families create home fire escape plans for everyone in the household, including pets. To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit SoundTheAlarm.org/Utah.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
