West Allis fire, woman dies

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - A 77-year-old woman died after a house fire in West Allis near 56th and Rogers Sunday, June 6. 

West Allis officials say crews were dispatched to the home shortly after 2 a.m. Sunday. While en route, firefighters were told of a person trapped inside of the home on the second floor. When the firefighters arrived on the scene, they found a large amount of smoke pouring from the front of the house. 

Firefighters immediately conducted a search of the home and found an unresponsive adult victim on the second floor. Despite life-saving efforts, the victim died. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office says the victim is a 77-year-old woman.

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One other person in the home was able to get out safely – and treated for smoke inhalation. 

Officials say the fire caused roughly $80,000 in damage to the structure and contents of the home. 

It has been determined the cause of the fire was due to improper disposal of smoking materials. 

The West Allis Fire Department urges citizens to make sure working smoke alarms are installed on every floor of the home. Additionally, smoke alarms should be placed in each sleeping area and within six feet of each door leading to a bedroom or sleeping area. Ensure that smoking materials are completely extinguished and disposed of properly. 

Citizens in need of smoke alarms may contact the West Allis Fire Department Mobile Integrated Health Bureau at 414-302-8910.