A resident who was simply doing laundry in their South Hill apartment caught some pants on fire, which turned into a much bigger problem. At 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Central Pierce Fire & Rescue crews were called to the 13000 block of Meridian Avenue for a balcony fire in a top-floor apartment. Firefighters arrived to find the flames had spread to the roof. A second alarm was called to summon more resources and the fire was put out. There are 16 units in the apartment complex. All residents have been forced out of their homes, some of which have smoke and water damage. Fire officials said they believe all residents but those in five of the units should be able to return to their homes by the end of the day.