A fire swept through a Milwaukee apartment building on Sunday, resulting in four fatalities and displacing numerous residents. The blaze originated in a common area of the 85-unit building and rapidly spread to multiple floors, forcing approximately 200 people to seek temporary housing.
Fire Response
Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski stated at a news conference that the building is now uninhabitable. Eyewitnesses reported that some individuals were trapped inside the four-story structure and had to jump from the second floor to escape.
When firefighters arrived, they were "far, far outmatched" by the intense flames. Firefighters utilized platform trucks to rescue individuals from windows while others entered the burning building. Some firefighters crawled on their hands and knees to reach trapped residents.
In total, about 30 people were rescued from the inferno, with four of those rescued in critical condition at hospitals around Milwaukee County.
Investigation and Building History
The cause of the fire is currently unknown, but Chief Lipski expressed confidence that it would be determined soon. The building, constructed in 1968 as part of a low-income housing project during President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Great Society program, has faced ongoing issues, including mold infestation.
Mayor Cavalier Johnson visited displaced residents on Monday morning and acknowledged the existing problems with the property. He stated that he is collaborating with local officials and federal agencies, including HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge, who toured the site and observed mold growing under appliances. Johnson emphasized, "This is not just about one property; it’s about how we can do better for our most vulnerable neighbors."
Firefighter Recognition
Chief Lipski praised his team, stating, "I’m so proud of my guys today. They’re heroes. They risked their lives every day they go into work."
Support for Displaced Residents
The American Red Cross has established shelters for those affected by the fire, and the Salvation Army is providing food assistance. Mayor Johnson assured that city officials will continue to work together until all displaced residents find safe accommodations until repairs can be made or new units become available. Currently, there are no plans for demolition or rebuilding; repairs will be conducted once all necessary permits are obtained.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and Chief Lipski indicated that it may take several days to determine what sparked the blaze. Firefighters responded around 3:15 p.m. on Sunday after receiving reports of flames engulfing the apartment complex near N Sherman Blvd. and W Center St. Investigators believe the fire started in a common area.
Additional information released on Tuesday revealed that four victims died due to injuries sustained during the incident, all of whom passed away at the hospital. The Milwaukee Police Department has identified three deceased individuals, and their families have been notified. Names will not be released until autopsies are completed, and detectives continue to investigate the cause of death. Three additional individuals remain hospitalized, with two in stable condition and one in critical condition.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Milwaukee Police Department Homicide Unit at (414) 933-7377.
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