Black smoke filled the sky as I flew into the parking lot. Bright flames shot out of broken windows, and a crowd was gathered in the parking lot, many of them crying. One woman was being forcibly held back. Two men had her firmly in their grip.
“My son, let me go! I have to get my son!” A thin black woman wailed, fighting to make the men holding her back let go. Tears streamed down her face, her voice ragged from screaming.
“Where? Which apartment?” I yelled over my shoulder as I raced toward the entrance.
“Third floor, 3B! Please help my baby!”
By now I’d reached the door. I turned back and saw the woman collapse into the men’s arms. When I reached for the doorknob it was too hot to touch. I yanked my jacket off and used it to open the door. Smoke poured out, and I couldn’t see throug
