Apartment fire in Racine displaces 3 residents and causes $60K in damage

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) --The Racine Fire Department responded to a fire on Tuesday, Jan. 2 at around 1:35 p.m., which involved a two-story apartment building containing four units. The fire, primarily contained in the attic, resulted in the displacement of three residents.

First responders from Engine 2 observed smoke coming from the building's roof. An investigation led to the discovery of a fire in the attic, identified through a discolored ceiling area and verified with a thermal imaging camera. Firefighters from Truck 1 assisted in accessing the attic, where they found burning floor joists and insulation.

Responders say that the fire was effectively controlled within 15 minutes.

Personnel from the Racine Fire Department, operating across six apparatus, were involved in the operation. The Racine Police Department and WE Energies contributed by managing traffic and isolating utilities.

An investigation pinpointed an electrical wiring issue in the attic as the cause of the fire, with damages estimated at $60,000.

The American Red Cross has stepped in to assist the displaced residents, providing support for alternate living arrangements.

One resident reportedly required hospital observation, though no injuries were reported among the fire department personnel.