Fire Department

The cause of this fire may have been improperly discarded smoking materials or an electrical failure related to an air conditioner or electrical outlet in the area of the fire's origin. The exact cause of the fire is undetermined. Damages are estimated at $125,000.

--Cynthia Schuster, Public Information Officer

The Madison Fire Department responded to a northside apartment complex following reports of a fire on a patio. Medic 10 arrived first on scene and reported to incoming crews that there was fire and smoke showing from the rear of the building. Medic 10 then searched the building and everybody was out safely.

Engine Co. 8, Engine Co. 5, and Engine Co. 3 all assisted with interior and exterior fire attack, knocking the fire down at 9:12 a.m. Firefighters rescued a cat and rabbit from the building. Ladder Co. 1 and Ladder Co. 8 performed a secondary search and assisted with ventilation. Engine Co. 10 assisted with overhaul.

All other pets in the building were accounted for, and there were no injuries as a result of this fire. Seventeen occupants are displaced from the eight-unit building due to fire and smoke damage and/or the temporary shutdown of utilities. The American Red Cross is assisting those who have been displaced. The cause of the fire is under investigation.