Investigators are trying to determine the cause of a fire that sent thick, black smoke billowing into the air at a high rise apartment building at 1365 Bank Street, near Billings Bridge.

The fire, which started on the 16th floor, forced the entire building to evacuate just before 8 p.m. Tuesday.

When firefighters arrived at the scene, heavy smoke had already filled some hallways and stairwells.

Although no injuries were reported, one unit was heavily damaged. Most residents were allowed back into their homes by 9:30 p.m.