According to the Fort Dodge Fire Department, a fire was reported at about 1:19 a.m. at 332 Ave. M West in the Westridge Townhomes. When fire crews arrived, they found occupants escaping the building with heavy fire conditions on the rear of unit 332. A third alarm was called to bring additional Fire Department resources to the scene.

Fire crews launched an “aggressive” attack, along with search and rescue operations, using three hose lines. According to the Fort Dodge Fire Department, the fire was brought under control at about 3 a.m., though crews remained to extinguish hot spots throughout the building until about 7:30 a.m.

The apartment building contained eight units with 14 occupants and several pets. Five of the units suffered serious fire, smoke and water damage. The remaining three units sustained smoke and water damage.

No injuries were reported and the Red Cross is assisting the occupants displaced by the fire.

-Submitted photo
According to the Fort Dodge Fire Department, crews were on scene for more than six hours after a fire broke out in the Westridge Townhomes early Sunday morning.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by FDFD investigators along with the State Fire Marshal’s Investigation Office.

Fort Dodge firefighters were assisted by the Fort Dodge Police Department and MidAmerican Energy Co.