20 displaced following elevator fire in apartment building near Marshall and Juneau

Updated: 7:25 a.m. on July 9, 2019

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Authorities say 20 people are displaced following the fire at an apartment building on Milwaukee's east side. 

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Posted: 9:56 p.m. on July 8, 2019

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Firefighters responded to an elevator fire at an apartment on Milwaukee's east side near Marshall and Juneau around 9:15 p.m. Monday night.

People who live in the building tell CBS 58 that the elevator fell four stories. One resident says she heard a loud crash, went out in the hall and saw smoke and flames.

The Milwaukee Fire Department says a fire in the elevator shaft of an apartment building stretched from the first to fourth floor.

Deputy Fire Chief Mike Blackwood says all occupants of the building were evacuated safely and several pets were also removed from the building.

The department says upon arrival, the fire was contained and extinguished.

MFD says at this time it is unknown whether elevator failure caused the fire or if the fire caused elevator failure.

There is reportedly extensive damage to the elevator, and some smoke and water damage to the apartments.

The chief estimates the building is compromised of around 30 apartment units.

Red Cross will be assisting about 20 residents from about 8 units that will be displaced Monday night.

MFD says the cause of fire remains under investigation. A damage estimate has yet to be determined.