DAVIE, Fla. — Police on Monday identified a senior who they said was killed after an apartment in Davie erupted in flames this past Friday morning.

They said Gloria Dickenson, 73, was found dead at the scene at the Ellsworth Apartments near the 6800 block of College Court Manor.

Officers and firefighters responded to the fire just after sunrise, where Davie Fire Rescue crews encountered heavy smoke conditions and quickly brought the blaze under control. The fire was later deemed accidental, police said.

Due to the extent of fire and smoke damage, residents from surrounding units were evacuated as a precaution while crews worked to ensure the structure was safe for reentry.

Ring camera video from the area captured the chaotic scene as first responders worked to extinguish the flames. Sky 10 flew over the scene just before 10:30 a.m., showing crime scene tape surrounding the building.

Local 10’s Jolena Esperto was at the scene as firefighters set up a blue tent and were seen removing items from the apartment.

Authorities confirmed that the State Fire Marshal’s Office will investigate the cause of the fire.

Neighbor Josh Greenberg told Local 10 that Dickenson was a grandmother who was well known in the community.

“She’s a mother, she’s a grandmother,” Greenberg said. “I see her grandkids come around a lot.”

Davie Fire Rescue said the American Red Cross is assisting displaced residents with available support services.

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