Syracuse, N.Y. – Firefighters were called to the 900 block of Milton Avenue at 1:25 P.M. today for a reported structure fire. The first units were on scene in just over 3 minutes and found one building, 905 Milton Avenue, fully engulfed in flames. The neighboring building, 903 Milton Avenue, was also on fire. Both structures contained two apartments. The first-arriving District Chief immediately called for a second alarm assignment, which brought over 50 firefighters to the scene.
Energized power lines had been burned away from one of the buildings and were down in the front yard, creating a major hazard for firefighters attempting to gain entry. Crews immediately searched both buildings for trapped or endangered occupants. It was later determined that all of the residents were able to escape without injury prior to the fire department’s arrival. It took well over an hour to fully extinguish the fires in both buildings. Firefighters were able to rescue some family pets from 903 Milton Avenue.
No injuries were reported. AMR, the Syracuse Police Department, the American Red Cross, and National Grid also responded to the incident. As of 3:45 P.M., crews remain on the scene chasing hot spots. Members of the Fire Investigation Bureau are currently working to determine the origin and cause of the fire. The Red Cross will be assisting the displaced families with shelter and other needs.
