JFD responds to fire at Chapel Ridge Apartments

No injuries reported in incident involving illegal electricity

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

The Jackson Fire Department responded to a fire at the Chapel Ridge Apartments in Jackson, Mississippi on Saturday afternoon. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered smoke and flames coming from a previously burned apartment. The fire was caused by "units with 'illegal electricity'" and the motive is currently unknown, according to JFD Division Fire Chief Charles Felton. No injuries were reported in the incident.

Why it matters

Apartment fires can pose serious risks to public safety, especially when caused by illegal electrical setups. This incident highlights the need for proper electrical infrastructure and oversight in residential buildings to prevent future fire hazards.

The details

When firefighters arrived at the Chapel Ridge Apartments, they found smoke and flames coming from a previously burned apartment unit. JFD requested that Entergy Mississippi respond to the scene due to the presence of "units with 'illegal electricity'" that were determined to be the cause of the fire. The motive behind the illegal electrical setup is currently unknown.

  • At approximately 4:33 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2026, JFD responded to reports of an apartment fire.

The players

Jackson Fire Department (JFD)

The fire department that responded to the incident at the Chapel Ridge Apartments.

Charles Felton

JFD Division Fire Chief who provided details about the cause and circumstances of the fire.

Entergy Mississippi

The utility company that was called to the scene due to the presence of illegal electrical setups.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This fire was caused as a result of human involvement, however, the motive is unknown at this time.”

— Charles Felton, JFD Division Fire Chief (wlbt.com)

What’s next

Investigators will continue to look into the cause and circumstances of the fire, including determining the motive behind the illegal electrical setup that led to the incident.

The takeaway

This apartment fire highlights the importance of proper electrical infrastructure and oversight in residential buildings to prevent future fire hazards and protect public safety.