The City of Madison Joint Fire/Arson Investigation Team has determined that this morning's fire at 4725 Cottage Grove Road was intentionally set. Evidence at the scene indicates that the fire was started in a laundry area on the first floor of the 24-unit apartment building.

Investigators are asking that anyone who has information on this fire please call Madison Area Crime Stoppers at (608) 266-6014 or submit a tip online by visiting www.madisonareacrimestoppers.org

This early morning fire caused damages in excess of $100,000 and placed more than 50 people's lives at risk. Firefighters used a ladder to rescue three people from a second floor window and many people were forced to crawl under the smoke to escape the building. A total of four people reported injuries at the scene and three of these required transport to the hospital.

The Joint Fire/Arson Investigation Team is a coordinated effort between the City of Madison Fire Department and several law enforcement agencies including the Madison Police Department. The team members receive training in fire origin and cause investigation and work together to document a fire scene and identify a cause.