One Year Passes Since Devastating Castle West Fire

COLORADO SPRINGS – It killed two Colorado Springs residents and left hundreds homeless. January 16 marks one year since the devastating Castle West apartment fire. Tuesday, those who battled the blaze are honored. It was one of the biggest fires in Colorado Springs history. In a ceremony the day before the one-year anniversary of the blaze, 241 firefighters were honored for their courageous efforts battling the blaze. Along with fire fighters and fire department personnel, more than 60 people from other agencies and volunteer organizations were also recognized. The devastating fire left hundreds homeless during bitter winter weather.

Churches and volunteers opened their doors to help those suddenly displaced. Pastor Toni Mariani of Lighthouse Mobile Ministries says all 67 families she helped after the fire have ended up in better places, calling the blaze a blessing in disguise. Mariani says only one person out of all those she helped said she’d rather be back at Castle West. Mariani also says fire victims still come in for help occasionally, even a year after the fire. 52-year-old Joe Santoya and 32-year-old Clemente Perez Salgado died in the blaze. 24-year-old Derrick Johnsonis awaiting trial on two charges of first-degree murder, arson and six other felonies in connection with the fire. Johnson is currently being held without bond at the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center. His next court day is set for February 27.