First-responders tend to Wheatfield structure fire; save cat

Late Tuesday, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a fire inside the lower residence at 2954 Niagara Falls Blvd., in the Town of Wheatfield. NCSO deputies responded and observed heavy smoke coming from inside the building.

A brief investigation revealed all occupants were safely evacuated from the residence. Adams Volunteer Fire Co., St. Johnsburg Volunteer Fire Co. and Bergholz Volunteer Fire Co. responded and extinguished the fire.

During the event, firefighters were able to rescue a cat, which belonged to the upstairs resident. The building sustained a significant amount of damage from the smoke and efforts to extinguish the fire. The resident of the lower unit was evaluated by Tri-Community EMS and treated for smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported. The Red Cross was called to assist the tenants affected by the fire.

An investigation into the cause of the fire by the Niagara County Origin and Cause Team is underway.