A quiet Tuesday on Milwaukee’s East Side turned chaotic when a house erupted in flames midday, scorching the upper story and tearing a huge hole into the side of the building. Two people and a dog got out in time, and officials reported no injuries as fire crews worked the scene into the afternoon and investigators moved in to sort out what sparked the blaze.
According to WISN 12 News, Milwaukee firefighters were dispatched to the home near East Pearson and Water streets at 12:52 p.m. A station photographer recorded extensive damage to the upper level along with a gaping opening along one side of the house. The Milwaukee Fire Department told WISN 12 News that the two residents and their dog escaped unharmed and that the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Milwaukee Fire Department response
The Milwaukee Fire Department runs 29 fire stations across the city and staffs more than 700 firefighters who also handle emergency medical calls, according to the department’s website. Milwaukee Fire Department materials note that many of those firefighters are also trained paramedics, which can speed up medical treatment when crews first arrive on scene.
Investigation underway
Officials said fire investigators were at the property Tuesday working to pinpoint where and how the blaze started. WISN 12 News reported that crews had successfully knocked down the flames and that no injuries were reported.
