Wesely Chapel apartment deemed ‘total loss’ following fire that displaced 200 residents

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Published August 21, 2026 3:57 PM EDT

The Brief

    • Approximately 200 residents were displaced after a three-alarm fire destroyed a building at Cobalt Apartments in Wesley Chapel.
    • Fire crews remained on the scene overnight to extinguish remaining hot spots and ensure the area remained safe.
    • The apartment complex is accepting donations at its leasing office to help affected residents.

WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. - A massive three-alarm fire destroyed a building at Cobalt Apartments in Wesley Chapel on Thursday afternoon, displacing about 200 residents and prompting a multi-agency response.

Fire destroys Wesley Chapel apartments

What we know:

Crews with Pasco County Fire Rescue responded to the Cobalt Apartments, located in the 3900 block of Jermyn Loop, shortly after 3 p.m. Thursday. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the roof, forcing an immediate evacuation of more than 90 units.

Additional units from Pasco County Fire Rescue arrived alongside mutual aid from Tampa Fire Rescue and Hillsborough County Fire Rescue. The structure suffered multiple interior and roof collapses and was deemed a total loss.

Dozens of pets were safely rescued from the burning building, and officials reported no injuries to residents or firefighters. Crews stayed at the scene through the night to extinguish hot spots and secure the area.

Fire origin under investigation

What we don't know:

Investigators have not yet determined what caused the fire. Official details on where the fire specifically started inside the building have also not been released.

Support for displaced families

What you can do:

The American Red Cross and Pasco County Emergency Management are helping approximately 200 displaced residents with immediate resources.

Cobalt Apartments is collecting donations for affected residents at its leasing office, located at 4338 Cobalt Brook Blvd. Accepted items include clothing, toiletries, pet supplies, food, water, gift cards, blankets and everyday essential items.

The Source: The information in this story was gathered from official updates and statements provided by Pasco County Fire Rescue and Cobalt Apartments staff.

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