Firefighters Battle Early-Morning Blaze

East Providence firefighters were battling a four-alarm fire early Sunday morning at 100 Walnut St.

The blaze appeared to be gutting the house. Rescue trucks were on hand but there did not appear to be any injuries.

Heavy smoke was still pouring from a 2 1/2-story home on the corner of Cross Street about 1 am. The fire is believed to have started sometime late Saturday night.

Scores of residents in that neighborhood were watching firefighters on two ladder trucks pour water onto the blaze. At least four other engines were parked on the streets, which were blocked off by East Providence police officers. Dozens of firefighters were walking the streets.

Fire Chief Oscar Elmasian was directing the attack on the fire. He had no details to release at about 1 am. The state fire marshal was on hand.

Providence firefighters were available to back up the East Providence firefighters if needed. Firefighters from other companies outside of East Providence were covering the city's stations during the blaze.