(Lewiston, ID) At 11:01 am today Lewiston Fire Department was dispatched to the above address for a report of some smoke in a building. After the initial dispatch of a single engine, responders requested to upgrade to a full first alarm assignment. First arriving unit observed smoke coming from an apartment on the 2nd floor of the multistory unit as well as light smoke from the third floor. It was quickly determined that the fire initiated from the apartment directly below the 2nd floor where the smoke was visible.
Crews attacked the fire from both the first floor and the 2nd floor simultaneously from opposite sides of the building. The third floor was also checked for fire and the fire was found to be in the wall between the first floor and the third floor.
The department responded with 3 engines, one ladder truck, 2 ambulances 3 investigators and 3 chief officers. Additional assistance was requested and received from Asotin County Fire with a chief officer and an engine, Clarkston Fire with an engine and Wheatland Fire Protection District with an engine. In total, 28 personnel arrived to assist in the firefighting operation.
Estimated damage to the building is $50,000 and due to the damage to the electrical, 12 apartments in the building will be temporarily without power.
One citizen received minor injuries and was recommended to be seen at the hospital.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The American Red Cross was contacted to assist those that may be displaced.