Norwalk, CT — The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 187 Ely Avenue on Saturday, June 13, at 4:22 p.m.

The building involved was a 21/2-story multifamily residence. While responding, fire companies observed a significant column of smoke visible from several blocks away. Upon arrival, Car 2 reported heavy fire showing from the side and rear of the structure, with smoke pushing from all floors.

Due to the volume of fire and initial reports of possible trapped occupants, a third alarm was transmitted, bringing additional personnel and resources to the scene.

Engine 5 stretched the initial attack line to the rear of the building, where the main body of fire was located. Conditions required a second hoseline to immediately back up the initial attack crew, while a third hoseline was advanced through the front entrance to support interior operations. Truck 2 and Rescue Company personnel conducted primary search operations while Truck 1 and other companies performed ventilation and coordinated fireground tasks.

During the incident, firefighters encountered challenges with the initial hydrant supplying Engine 5. Engine 4 secured a secondary hydrant and supplemented the water supply to support ongoing fire attack operations.

Prior to the arrival of fire department personnel, a 14-year-old female occupant escaped the building by jumping from a second-floor window. She was transported to the hospital for evaluation and treatment. The victim's mother was assisted out of the building by a neighboring resident using a ladder before the fire department arrived.

Firefighters rescued one dog from the first floor of the residence. A second dog escaped the structure with occupants prior to the arrival of emergency personnel.

A total of thirteen occupants were displaced by the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting those affected.

Mutual aid assistance was provided by neighboring departments. Fire companies from Stamford and New Canaan responded to the scene, while additional companies from Rowayton, Westport, and Fairfield assisted with citywide coverage during the incident.

Norwalk Police closed Ely Avenue to assist with fireground operations, while Norwalk EMS stood by on scene to provide medical care and firefighter rehabilitation. Two firefighters were evaluated for heat-related exhaustion, and one firefighter was transported to Norwalk Hospital for treatment.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Norwalk Fire Marshal's Office.