Fire Displaces Family from Downtown Albany Apartment Complex

Smoke advisory issued as blaze engulfs neighboring unit

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A fire broke out at an apartment complex in downtown Albany, Georgia, displacing a family and prompting the Albany Police Department to issue a smoke advisory for the surrounding area. Nastassja Nunally, a resident of the complex, said she woke up to the smell of smoke coming from her kitchen, and when she opened her front door, the hallway was filled with black smoke. Nunally and her children were able to evacuate safely, but she later discovered that the fire had originated from the downstairs apartment next to hers.

Why it matters

Apartment fires can have devastating consequences, both for the families affected and the broader community. This incident highlights the importance of fire safety and preparedness, as well as the need for effective emergency response and support services for displaced residents.

The details

According to the Albany Fire Department, the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Nunally said that despite not being able to recover anything from her apartment, her only priority was ensuring the safety of her children. The Red Cross is providing assistance to Nunally, and she is in the process of setting up a GoFundMe to help with her recovery.

  • The fire broke out on the morning of February 8, 2026.

The players

Nastassja Nunally

A resident of the apartment complex who lived with her children and was able to evacuate safely when the fire broke out.

Albany Fire Department

The local fire department investigating the cause of the fire.

Albany Police Department

The local police department that issued a smoke advisory for the surrounding area due to the fire.

Red Cross

The organization providing assistance to Nunally and her family after the fire.

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What they’re saying

“I woke up this morning, I smelled smoke, and I didn't, uh, I got up and, uh. The smoke was coming out of my kitchen, and when I opened up my front door, it was engulfed like black smoke. I told my children, come on, let's get out and we ran out the apartment.”

— Nastassja Nunally, Resident (walb.com)

“I looked at the other side of the apartment, and it was on fire. The opposite side of me wasn't my apartment. It was the downstairs apartment on fire.”

— Nastassja Nunally, Resident (walb.com)

“I'm glad that me and my children got out and just just I'm just glad that me and my children got out.”

— Nastassja Nunally, Resident (walb.com)

What’s next

The Albany Fire Department is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, and Nunally is working with the Red Cross and setting up a GoFundMe to help with her recovery.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness, as well as the need for strong community support and resources for families affected by such disasters. It also highlights the crucial role of first responders and emergency services in protecting public safety.