Lincoln Fire and Rescue crews battled an apartment fire and frigid temperatures around 5:30 a.m. Monday near South 11th and “G” Streets.
LFR Spokeswoman MJ Lierman said six of the eight units in the three-story building were occupied at the time. All residents were evacuated safely. An initial search lead crews to the roof/attic space.
“It was pretty advanced,” Lierman said. “We ended up going defensive on the fire. Our water sources have caused a lot of ice in the area.”
Temperatures were well below freezing as crews arrived at the scene, recorded around 11 degrees at the time. City partners with Lincoln Police and Lincoln Transportation and Utilities are monitoring the area, as ice could create dangerous driving conditions.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, said Lierman. While no residents were injured, one firefighter was checked for minor injuries.
During the fire, a nearby transformer is believed to have exploded, causing a brief power outage over several blocks, from 10th to 12th and “H” to “G” Streets. This included a nearby business strip housing a daVinci’s pizza restaurant and Cultiva Coffee shop. Lincoln Electric System was notified and power has since been restored.
The American Red Cross has opened up a shelter at Lincoln High School to assist those affected by the fire. A Red Cross spokesperson said they’ll continue to coordinate with local officials to determine how to best support the affected residents in the days and weeks ahead.
Following the evacuation, two cats were reported missing. Lierman said the total damage estimates are not yet known.
Photo: Chris Lofgreen, KLIN News