SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — This Christmas is being observed under difficult circumstances for several metro Atlanta families after a fire broke out at their Sandy Springs apartment complex.
Nearly two dozen people have been displaced after a fire broke out at the Balfour Chastain apartments on Roswell Road Monday morning.
Ofelia Lara is a mother of three. Excited to have her 18-year-old, 16-year-old and 12-year-old under one roof after two years in Atlanta, she was looking forward to the holiday but had no idea that her family's Christmas would turn into a catastrophe.
"On Christmas Day, it's terrible, terrible for our family," Lara said.
Lara said she, her husband and three children woke up to the early morning fire. More than 20 people were displaced, according to authorities, but no one was hurt. Throughout the rainy Monday, crews investigated what caused the flames and what was left of the four affected units drenched.
"Wet, everything is wet," Lara said of the items in her unit.
Firefighters believe the fire broke out around 4 a.m. and now consider the building a total loss. Thankfully, for the Lara family, some things were salvaged.
"I go outside and wake up my kids and tell them to go. Take your phone and papers, important papers and let's go somewhere," Lara said.
Within a few moments, the Laras saved family photos and other keepsakes. However, Christmas gifts did not make it.
"My son, he lost his toys," Lara said.
Now, the family said it is grieving its loss, adding that the fire has dampened their Christmas spirit.
"It's too bad because we've been in Atlanta two years but this is our first Christmas together," Lara tearfully explained.
The Lara family will stay in a hotel temporarily. Eventually, the family will move into another unit in the complex - which is being organized by the apartment management company. Though the Laras have a plan to keep a roof over their heads, the mother said the fire is a sobering reminder of how precious moments together are.
"I feel so bad because in one second, you can lose everything," she said.
Receiving perspective and clarity on Christmas Day, Lara said she also has a new resolve to take care of her family - and no fire, rain or tragedy can wash that away.
"I don't know what happened, and I'm confused, and I feel so bad," she said, "but I have to be strong for my kids."
The American Red Cross has offered assistance to the families affected by the fire. Apartment management said it has already helped another family find a spot at another property.