Accused arsonist charged, families displaced after Wednesday's fire in Bismarck

Multiple first responders were in south Bismarck Wednesday morning evacuating an apartment building and putting out flames.

The Red Cross says there were nine adults and seven children displaced because of the fire.

The fire department says there were no injuries.

A viewer photo shows the scene many in the area of Washington Courts awoke to.

"Having a dream or nightmare. But, no, this is not a dream, this is real," said John Konneh, fire victim.

Konneh and his two daughters ran out of their apartment when they saw flames.

"The fire was serious, it was on the building, the whole roof coming down," said Konneh.

Police say the roof is a total loss, with more than $10,000 in damages.

Wednesday afternoon 45-year-old Eduardo Rodriguez was charged with arson in the case.

"I don't know why, who, and if they're targeting someone in this building, or if its just, or if it's something that’s just going to happen in this street," said Michelle LaPoint, neighbor.

Neighbors say they were afraid.

"Got so big and it was scary. I was hoping it wouldn't come this way," said Yvonne Kuvik, neighbor.

Neighbors are glad no one was hurt and the fire was put out.

As for Konneh and his family, they say they're stressed but feel lucky to be alive.

The Burleigh County Housing Authority says there were 11 units rented out of the 24 apartments in the building.

Some will stay in hotels Wednesday night, Konneh says his family has already been assigned a new home.

As for the accused arsonist, his initial appearance will be Thursday morning.

We'll continue to update you as we know more on the case.