The American Red Cross is assisting more than 20 people following a massive fire in Steuben County that impacted seven residences.

The area was solemn Sunday afternoon on Preston Avenue in Hornell. A neighbor who captured video said it was windy when the fire broke out around 2:00 p.m.

"Three of these houses were arms-length apart. I mean, you could reach out the window and touch the adjacent. So you've got that radiant heat, plus the wind taking the currents over so it was quite a challenge right off the bat," said Chief Frank Brzozowski, Hornell City Fire Department. "Between so many structures and such a volume and intense fire, to sift through it. It's going to take some to get through it."

Fire crews said police were beating on doors as the apartment homes burned, getting people out. Multiple crews were on scene for hours before the flames were under control.

In a press conference on Monday, Hornell Mayor John Buckley called the devistation of the fire "shocking."

The Red Cross is providing assistance to those displaced at the Hornell High School. Its services include funding for temporary housing, food, clothing, and mental health support. Affected families will meet with Red Cross caseworkers in the coming days to work on long-term recovery plans.

Officials are working with Maple City Savings Bank to set up an account for donations to assist those impacted by the fire. At this time, the bank is only accepting cash donations.

No one was hurt, but several pets were unaccounted for.