Racine officials investigate house fire on West 6th Street

RACINE (WITI) -- Racine officials responded to the scene of a house fire Sunday, March 31st at 1709 West 6th Street.

According to officials, the residents were enjoying Easter when someone in the home noticed smoke and flames coming from a small bedroom in the back of the residence.

Authorities say the fire began on the first floor of the home and extended to the attic.

When officials arrived on the scene they saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the exterior and interior of the home. Fire crews quickly knocked down the exterior fire, then concentrated efforts on the interior.

The lower unit sustained heavy damage to the structure and contents. The upper unit was not occupied at the time of the fire.

There were approximately ten people in the home at the time of the fire. According to officials, all ten people were able to self evacuate -- and no injuries were sustained. However, two family pets died as a result of the fire -- a dog and a bird.

The Red Cross was called to the scene to aid in temporary housing for the displaced residents.

Officials say the fire caused an estimated $50,000 in damage to the structure and $25,000 in damage to the contents.

The cause of the fire is unknown and remains under investigation.