On Nov. 9 at 4:28 p.m., the Pittsfield Fire Department answered an emergency call for a fire at a two‑family residence on Worthington Place. Four engine companies, a ladder company and a deputy chief were dispatched from stations on Columbus Avenue and West Housatonic Street.

Rapid response and aggressive attack

Engine 3, Truck 2 and Car 2 arrived within a minute of leaving the station and reported heavy smoke pouring from both the first and second floors of the three‑story, wood‑frame home. Pittsfield police confirmed that all occupants were accounted for by the time firefighters reached the scene.

Engine 3 began an aggressive interior attack on the right‑side residence while the ladder company positioned a ladder for access. Engine 1 secured a water supply and checked the left‑side residence for fire spread. Engine 5 supplied a backup line and assisted with extinguishment and searches, and Engine 6 was assigned as the rapid‑intervention team. Action Ambulance provided EMS coverage.

Fire under control and animal casualties

Firefighters knocked down the main body of the blaze on the first floor within a few minutes, allowing crews to complete a thorough search of the entire structure. Remaining hot spots were declared under control within 30 minutes.

Three cats were found inside the home; one was rescued alive while two were found deceased.

Occupants and community assistance

The occupants, who were upstairs when the fire started, quickly descended, passed the flames and exited safely through the front door. Their immediate 911 call helped accelerate the fire department’s response and limited damage to the property.

Three adults, three children, two dogs and a cat were displaced from the two residences. The American Red Cross responded to provide temporary housing and essential supplies.

Damage assessment and investigation

While a precise damage estimate is not yet available, the right‑side residence suffered severe fire and water damage, and the left‑side residence experienced smoke damage. Utilities were disconnected outside the building. No injuries were reported among fire department personnel.

The fire is believed to have originated unintentionally in the first‑floor kitchen area and remains under investigation by the department’s fire investigation unit.

Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.