All the known residents of the complex, many of whom are HSU students, are believed to have escaped the fire. One student suffered a wrist injury when jumping from a balcony.
HSU has arranged special assistance for students displaced by the fire, including food, clothing, housing, counseling, class accommodations, and other needs.
Responding agencies included Arcata Police, Arcata Fire, Eureka Fire, Humboldt Fire District 1, University Police, and the Humboldt County Chapter of the American Red Cross.
Arcata and University police officers ran door-to-door, pounding on doors and evacuating residents from the multi-unit complex. Some students left with only minimal clothing, and sat in University Police patrol cars until shelter was arranged.
The cause of the fire is being investigated by the Arcata Fire Protection District and the Arcata Police Department. University Police is continuing to assist the lead agencies.
Any student affected by the fire and in need of assistance should contact a special hotline set up at the HSU Office of Student Affairs, (707) 826-4110.
Family members of affected HSU students may call the University at (866) 486-2653.