Fire severely damages Vancouver duplex

A fire severely damaged a three-story townhouse Wednesday morning in Vancouver’s North Image neighborhood.

Fire crews were dispatched at 8:22 a.m. to 5801 N.E. 135th Ave., for a report of a structure fire, according to a Vancouver Fire Department news release. When the initial engine arrived, firefighters spotted flames coming out of the third floor of a three-story townhouse duplex.

The residents were awoken by smoke alarms and their dogs. Lead Deputy Vancouver Fire Marshal Chad Lawry said they were outside when firefighters arrived at the scene. It was unclear from the available reports if any of the residents were injured or suffered smoke inhalation, Lawry said. The Red Cross was requested to assist them.

The unit where the fire originated is about 2,520 square feet, with a 604-square-foot garage on the first level, according to the fire department.

It took five engines, one truck and two battalion chiefs to get the fire under control, Lawry said.

There was heavy fire damage to the third floor of the townhouse and significant water damage to the second floor, the fire department said. Officials estimate the fire caused $145,150 worth of damage.

Lawry said the structure is repairable despite the damage.

The residents were renting and have renters insurance, according to the fire department.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.