Father tries to rescue family in fatal apartment complex fire in Hemet

HEMET, CA - Three people died and several others have been transported to a hospital after a massive fire ripped through an apartment complex in Hemet, California. The massive and aggressive fire broke out around 1:15 a.m. Friday morning at the complex located at Alessandro Street and Latham Avenue. 

The victims were a 4-year-old girl, a 12-year-old girl, and a 41-year-old father. Hemet Police Department Lt. Nate Miller said the father tried to go back inside to rescue other family members but did not make it out.  An 8-year-old child is also in grave condition. 

A total of 40 residents have been displaced from the fire. Riverside County Red Cross has been set up to assist those affected by the fire at the Hemet Public Library.

Video from the scene shows a number of firefighters rushing to evacuate the building as quickly as possible. Medical crews were also performing CPR on several people as they were being transported to the hospital.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.