A three-alarm fire tore through a two-storey apartment building on Detroit's west side early Thursday, October 22, forcing firefighters to rescue residents by ladder from second-floor windows, according to the Detroit Fire Department, reported by The Detroit News via Firehouse and by WDIV Local 4 via Daily Dispatch.

Source: Firehouse (Detroit News)

Deputy Fire Chief Lorenzo Robertson said crews were called at about 5 a.m. to the building on Webb Street, in the 2200 block near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Tuxedo Street — the Russell Woods Manor Apartments. The first fire company arrived within 5 minutes and 49 seconds, he said.

"Fire was going through the roof of the complex," Robertson said. "There were civilians attempting to jump from second-floor windows, but fire crews arrived with ladders and assisted those trapped civilians down. It was a great job by the members of the Detroit Fire Department through their quick response."

A man and a woman, both in their 50s, were taken to a hospital for smoke inhalation; WDIV reported they were taken to Detroit Receiving Hospital in serious condition with minor burns and smoke inhalation. A firefighter also injured an ankle and was walking on it, Robertson said.

Firefighters contained the blaze to about 10 to 12 apartment units and the fire was downgraded from a three-alarm to a standard box alarm, Robertson said. The American Red Cross was on scene helping four displaced families find temporary housing, WDIV reported.

Source: Daily Dispatch (WDIV Local 4)

The cause of the fire is under investigation, officials said. No deaths were reported.