WEST ALLIS, Wis. — Three people are injured following an apartment fire in West Allis, according to the West Allis Fire Department Assistant Chief Jay Scharfenberg.
West Allis Fire Department said that around 4:35 a.m. Wednesday, the department received reports of an apartment fire at 10942 W. Wildwood Lane.
When crews responded, they were met with two units that were “heavily engulfed in fire.” The department said it quickly escalated to a third-alarm fire and required the response of 81 firefighters from five different fire departments, including the Milwaukee Fire Department, the Wauwatosa Fire Department, the Greenfield Fire Department, the Greendale Fire Department and the West Allis Fire Department.
Crews rescued one person from a balcony, and two small children and an adult from one of the units.
At least three people were transported to the hospital, but their condition is unknown at this time. Scharfenberg said their injuries are most likely related to smoke inhalation.
Ten apartments were involved in the fire. West Allis Fire Department said that the building was not protected by a fire sprinkler system due to codes at the time of construction. Scharfenberg said the apartment building is no longer habitable, with parts of it being a total loss and others simply needing rehab. The roof, he said, collapsed in the fire.
Crews continued to look for additional victims in the debris Wednesday.
"Our thoughts and support go out to the affected residents during this challenging time," said the fire department in a press release.
Around 30 people were displaced as a result of the fire, Scharfenberg estimated. The Red Cross will be helping those who are displaced. Officials with the organization said anyone displaced can come join them at Mother of Perpetual Help, 2322 S. 106th St. in West Allis.
U-Haul is also offering 30 days of free self-storage to residents that were displaced or impacted by the fire.
“U-Haul is a proud member of this community, and we want to extend our thoughts and prayers to our neighbors,” said Steve Hansen, U-Haul Company of South Eastern Wisconsin president. “Homes have been affected and we want to be able to give solace to people looking for a secure place to store their belongings.”
Scharfenberg said Milwaukee Police Department is assisting with the investigation. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.
In response to the fire, the department reminded citizens about the importance of fire safety, such as installing and maintaining smoke alarms, sleeping with bedroom doors closed, having an escape plan and more.
This story is developing. Check back later for updates.