Fire Department

Two families are displaced following a fire that occurred at an east side duplex Tuesday morning. Nobody was injured.

Neighbors dialed 911 to report “black smoke billowing” from the rear of the duplex located on the 6600 block of Radford Drive. Engine Company 13, along with a full structure fire response, responded also reported seeing a large plume of smoke from about a half-mile away.

Upon arrival, crews encountered flames and thick smoke along the porch, siding, and eaves in the rear of the duplex. Engine 13 began fire attack as Medic 5 searched the adjacent unit for any occupants still inside. After the unit was given an “all clear,” Medic 5 assisted with fire attack until they were able to enter the primary unit and search for occupants there. Nobody from that unit was home at the time of the fire.

Ladder 1, Engine 8, and Engine 11 assisted with overhaul and ventilation. Although the interior living quarters did not sustain fire damage, it did sustain significant smoke and water damage. Both units were impacted because the fire had spread into the attic and across the length of the building.

Upon notification of the occupants, firefighters learned there were two cats somewhere inside the unit where the fire occurred. Firefighters found one of the cats, brought it outside in a crate, and provided a dish of water. The second cat was eventually located by the owner a couple hours later and reunited with the other cat. The family dog was with a caretaker at the time of the fire. 

Both families received assistance from the American Red Cross as they work to find temporary accommodations. Damage estimates are not available at this time, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.