Update: Check out coverage from WISN, TMJ4, CBS 58 and Fox 6. And you can see more photos on this Facebook page.
From South Milwaukee Fire Chief Joe Knitter, who also shared the stunning photo above …
At 7:37 this evening, SMFD received a 9-1-1 report of a house on fire at 829 Marquette Avenue. Upon arrival of SMPD and SMFD, heavy fire was venting from the first floor windows and rapidly extending to the 2nd floor. All occupants had self-evacuated from the house prior to our arrival. Due to the amount of fire present, an exterior attack was used to knock down the majority of the fire until safe entry could be made to extinguish the rest of the fire on the first and second floors and the attic. Extensive overhaul was required and accomplished by mutual aid companies. A MABAS Box Alarm was called to maintain sufficient staffing levels at the scene and in our station to cover subsequent calls. As a point of notice, we receive a Town of Raymond ambulance and Hales Corner Engine and Chief to stand by at our station during incidents such as this, along with numerous companies to the scene.
No injuries to the occupants or firefighters have been reported. The origin and cause of the fire is under investigation. Due to the time of day, extent of damage, and rapid fire spread, the State Fire Marshall’s office has been notified and will be at the scene tomorrow morning at 9AM to assist in the investigation.
I’ll keep you posted.
South Milwaukee Blog 