Southwest Atlanta Apartment Complex Damaged by Fire After Vandalism, Gunshots

Firefighters responded to the scene early Saturday morning as one building was burning to the ground.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A southwest Atlanta apartment complex was heavily damaged by an overnight fire, with the owner reporting that a tenant had called to say someone was breaking windows and firing shots into the air before the blaze broke out. The unit that burned was empty, and the owner believes squatters could be to blame, though the fire department is still investigating the official cause.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of crime and property damage facing some Atlanta neighborhoods, as well as the difficulties new property owners can face in trying to revitalize affordable housing units. The fire also raises concerns about the safety of tenants and the potential involvement of squatters in such incidents.

The details

Firefighters were called to the 2905 Springdale Road SW apartment complex around 5 a.m. on Saturday morning. Medina Jett, the complex's owner, said she had purchased the buildings just over a month ago with the goal of turning them into a safe and affordable place to live. However, before the fire, a tenant had called Jett to report someone breaking windows and firing shots into the air at the complex.

  • Firefighters were called to the scene around 5 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
  • Jett had purchased the apartment buildings a little over a month prior to the incident.

The players

Medina Jett

The owner of the apartment complex where the fire occurred.

Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department

The fire department that responded to the scene and is investigating the cause of the fire.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'And I got over here this morning only to find that one of the buildings is literally burning to the ground.'”

— Medina Jett, Apartment Complex Owner (Atlanta News First)

What’s next

The Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department is continuing to investigate the official cause of the fire.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of crime, property damage, and public safety issues facing some Atlanta neighborhoods, as well as the difficulties new property owners can face in trying to revitalize affordable housing units in the city.