NORWALK, CT — Two residents were displaced after a fire broke out at a multi-family home in Norwalk late Wednesday night, according to the Norwalk Fire Department.
In a news release, Chief Edward McCabe said a residential structure fire was reported on South Main Street around 10:30 p.m.
When crews arrived in the area, they found smoke and flames showing from the back and side of the three-story, wood-frame building, McCabe said.
Crews quickly located the seat of the fire, stretched a hose line to the back apartment and rapidly brought the fire under control, confining it to the kitchen and dining area of the apartment, according to McCabe.
Smoke and water damage extended throughout the affected apartment unit, McCabe said.
Firefighters conducted primary searches of all floors of the building and confirmed there were no occupants inside, according to McCabe.
Crews assisted with utility control, ventilation and inspection of the roof structure for fire extension, McCabe said.
"Gas and electrical utilities were secured and the building was thoroughly ventilated," McCabe said in a news release. "Atmospheric monitoring was conducted to ensure the structure was free of hazardous products of combustion prior to reoccupancy."
No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported, according to McCabe.
During search operations, crews located a cat inside the apartment and removed it from the building, McCabe said.
"Despite those efforts, the animal had succumbed to smoke inhalation and was returned to its owner," McCabe said.
The fire displaced two residents, who received assistance from the American Red Cross, McCabe said.
Occupants of the remaining three apartments were able to return to their homes, according to McCabe.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Norwalk Fire Marshal's Division, McCabe said.
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