Firefighter killed in collapse at MU apartments

Lt. Bruce Britt killed in line of duty after walkway collapses Saturday morning

POSTED: 10:55 AM CST Feb 22, 2014 UPDATED: 01:14 PM CST Feb 22, 2014

COLUMBIA, Mo. -

A Columbia firefighter was killed while responding to a walkway collapse Saturday morning at University Village apartment

Lt. Bruce Britt died Saturday morning, according to the Columbia Fire Department.

A news conference has been scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday.

Chancellor R. Bowen Loftin released the following statement Saturday:

"My heart is heavy this morning as my deepest condolences go to the family of the brave City of Columbia firefighter who was fatally injured in the line of duty helping keep the residents of University Village Apartments safe.

We are grateful that, due to the efforts of this firefighter and others, no residents were injured. My deepest gratitude goes out to everyone who assisted during this emergency."

Inspections are currently underway at the University of Missouri-owned apartments on Providence Road after an exterior walkway collapsed around 4:40 a.m.

One resident said he had been evacuated when a neighbor noticed cracks inside his apartment and found part of his balcony had crumbled.

University officials said Saturday all students and residents were accounted for and safe.

Residents told ABC 17 News they were being relocated Saturday because it could be hours before their apartments were cleared from inspection.

One couple said they were being put up at a local hotel.