The former Skyline Apartments in Syracuse is back in the spotlight. The building been declared unfit and unsafe for habitation after a fire broke out in a second-floor apartment Tuesday afternoon.

Clear Investment Group, the owners of the building, are currently removing any remaining occupants as National Grid is set disconnect utilities from the building. 

The fire was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes, although smoke traveled traveled thoughout the building and took several hours to clear. Syracuse fire investigators said the fire was sparked by a faulty lithium battery.

The tenant of that apartment was treated for smoke inhalation and later released. The Red Cross is helping several people who were still living in the apartments as remaining occupants are being removed.

This comes after the building was evocatuated this July for rennovations. In July 2023, Clear Mangement Group closed the building with intent to restore the property and make it a safe, secure place.

The building serves as a home to many but they say a home with serious issues. Over the years the building has been the subject of a lot of attention due to reports of violent crime and code violations. As of right now, it is unclear what the future has in store for the apartment complex.