Massive Fire Engulfs Under-Construction $66M Apartment Complex in Cleveland Heights

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio — A massive fire broke out Friday night at The Marquee at Cedar Lee, a $66 million under-construction apartment complex in the Cedar Lee District. Flames and thick smoke were visible for miles, prompting fire crews from multiple cities to respond to the scene.

Video obtained by 3News showed flames pouring out of the structure, which was part of the Cedar-Lee-Meadowbrook project. The development, which broke ground in May 2023, was expected to include 206 luxury apartments and retail space. No one was living in the complex at the time of the fire.

The Cleveland Heights Fire Department blocked off the Cedar-Lee intersection and Cedar Road eastbound starting at Kildare Road. Smoke was reported to be moving northbound toward Heights High School, prompting officials to advise residents to close windows and doors. “Those with respiratory issues should take extra precautions,” the city said in a statement.

Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren provided updates on social media, stating that the fire was “being managed but is not out” as of 1 a.m. Saturday. Firefighters from 11 neighboring communities, including Shaker Heights, South Euclid, and University Heights, assisted in battling the blaze. The Cuyahoga County Fire Mobile Command and the Hillcrest-Heights Regional Fire Investigation Unit were also called to the scene.

Zach Sefcovic, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Cleveland, noted that the dry, cold conditions Friday night, with temperatures around 12 degrees Fahrenheit, made it easier for the fire to spread. “When it’s drier, a fire has an easier time maintaining,” he said.

The Cedar-Lee-Meadowbrook project, announced in March 2023, was touted as a transformative development for the area. Mayor Seren had previously described it as a way to reenergize the neighborhood, offering new housing options and enhancing the Cedar Lee District’s appeal as a destination for dining, shopping, and living.

As of late Friday night, the cause of the fire remained under investigation. WKYC and cleveland.com have reached out to the city of Cleveland Heights for further comment.