NORFOLK, Va. — More than 100 Norfolk State University students were evacuated from the Babbette Smith North residence hall after a fire in a dryer's air duct Thursday night.
That's a dorm for women on Park Avenue.
"A nightmare," said student Anuli LeGrand to describe her day.
Stan Donaldson, a spokesman for the university, said the fire started Thursday just after 11 p.m. He said it was small enough not to cause any structural damage.
The smoke did trigger the sprinkler system, and students were relocated to a hotel.
Alexia Ring says she opened her dorm room door to the sound of fire alarms and water in the hallway.
"I look out in the hallway, and I heard water pouring. And I thought, 'what is that?" she said. "Then, I see a bunch of smoke coming out of the laundry room and I think, Oh my gosh, it's real! We gotta' hurry up and get out!"
The State Fire Marshall's office determined the fire started on the fifth floor of the building.
On Friday morning, Makayla Williams and other students came back to grab some of their belongings but learned of another problem.
"They were letting people in to get their things, and they started talking about there’s another emergency, and you all are going to have to leave,” she said.
Norfolk State Police Chief Brian Covington said an electrical fire sparked on the roof Friday around 11:20 a.m., prompting fire crews to return to campus.
“I have medication that I am supposed to be taking every night," said LeGrand. "I did not have the luxury to take that last night. My engagement ring is also in the room.”
Norfolk State maintenance crews are working to clean and access the damage.
The State Fire Marshall's Office said it is working with Norfolk State officials to determine when students can return to their dorm rooms.