10 Displaced By East Utica House Fire
A total of ten people have been displaced after a fire tore the second story of a two-family home in East Utica.
Utica Firefighters say no one was injured injured in the Sunday afternoon blaze at 518 Wetmore Street. Arriving firefighters reported heavy fire and smoke billowing from the second floor and extending into the attic. Ultimately, a large hole was cut in the roof to allow for ventilation.
The fire was contained to the second story and attic, and firefighters covered furniture and personal belongings of the occupants with tarps to help protect them from water damage, officials said.
The cause is still under investigation.
While the exterior siding at 518 seemed mostly intact on the side of the structure, you can see from the photos below that siding at a neighboring home - 520 Wetmore - began melting off.
Utica Fire, National Grid and the American Red Cross all responded to the scene.
Officials say at least four of the occupants are receiving assistance with immediate housing and other needs.