Three families displaced when homes damaged by early morning fire

MILWAUKEE, WI (CBS 58) -- Three homes were damaged, one extensively, by fire on Milwaukee’s north side early this morning.    Fire was reported around 3:55 AM in a 2 and ½ story wood framed house at  N 40^th and W Garfield Avenue.   When Milwaukee firefighters arrived they discovered heavy fire coming from the home and the houses on either side were being threatened by the flames and a second alarm was quickly called.  Firefighting efforts were hampered by several old growth trees which needed to be trimmed to allow access to the buildings.   The fire was declared under control around 5:10 AM.   There were no reports of injuries but three families were displaced by the fire and are being assisted by the Red Cross.  Damage to the house where the fire originated is estimated at $350,000.   Damage to the two neighboring homes is still being determined.   The cause of the fire is under investigation.