Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory officials say five families have been left homeless following a fire that broke out at in the basement apartment of a multi-family residence at 423 E. Arthur St., Warsaw.
At about 9 p.m. Friday, the fire was reported by a resident of the apartment building. Winona Lake Fire Department was called shortly for a full assist after WWFT fire fighters arrived on scene. About 30 minutes later, Plain Township/Leesburg Fire Department was called in for manpower and a tanker from Pierceton Fire Department was also requested.
Fire fighters are still on scene and, due to the need for additional fire hydrants, the north-south Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks have also been shut down.
The American Red Cross has been called to help four of the families displaced by the fire and to set up a canteen for about 50 fire fighters who remain on scene. Arthur Street at North Detroit Street and at Ellsworth Street are currently closed to traffic.
More information will be provided as it becomes available. Right now, a cause for the blaze has not been determined.
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