Fire Captain Michael A. Washington reported on a two-alarm structure fire which occurred this morning in Spring Grove Village. At 2:47 AM the Cincinnati Fire Communication Center received a telephone call reporting a structure next door from 756 E. Epworth Avenue.

Initial arriving fire units reported smoke and fire showing from the first floor of a two-story with attic (frame) duplex private dwelling. Fire fighters conducted an aggressive interior fire attack with hose lines inside the structure. Search and rescue operations were conducted simultaneously for any occupants, none were found.

Interior conditions deteriorated rapidly which caused fire fighters to change fire fighting tactics. The fire entered the second floor and the attic space of 752-754 East Epworth causing extensive damage. Fire fighters continued to fight the fire defensively from the exterior.

Damage is estimated at $150,000.00 to the structure and contents including a vehicle parked behind the residence. Forty-seven fire fighters were utilized at this incident. The origin and cause has yet to be determined. The Cincinnati Fire Investigation Unit is currently on the scene. Smoke alarms operated properly alerting building occupants. The American Red Cross is assisting four adults displaced by this fire.

For further information please contact District Three Fire Chief Paul Weber at: (513) 352-2333