City of Lockport firefighters respond to two fires Saturday

Sep. 22—A multi-family residence on North Transit Street suffered heavy damage from a Saturday night fire, according to the Lockport Fire Department.

The fire at 182 North Transit St. was reported about 10:35 p.m. Saturday with flames visible from first floor windows at the rear and side of the building. The source of the fire was found to be a first-floor bedroom. Assistant Chief Rob Haley directed fire crews at the scene.

All occupants of the home were able to ecavuate before firefighters arrived.

Fire officials said fire damage was kept to the rear half of the structure but heat, smoke and water damage was suffered throughout the structure.

No injuries were reported. A cat was found dead in a second-floor apartment. Five adults and two children were displaced by the fire.

The fire is believed to be accidental with investigators looking into an unattended candle as the possible cause. The building suffered an estimated $70,000 in damages.

Fire Chief Luca Quagliano noted that firefighters didn't find a single smoke detector in the entire building.

City of Lockport firefighters also responded to a fire at 38 Park Lane Circle about 6:20 a.m. Saturday.

A 911 caller reported seeing smoke coming out of a second-floor window. Firefighters under the direction of Captain Chris Lane determined the fire was in the kitchen. It was quickly brought under control.

None of the four occupants were home at the time of the fire. No injuries were reported. Two cats and a pet rat were safely removed from the home.

Firefighters estimated about $20,000 damage to the home. The cause of the fire is belived to be accident.