On Monday, May 25, 2026, at approximately 6:20 AM the Eau Claire Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1541 Altoona Ave. The incident was dispatched as a residential fire with reports of occupants on the roof and the possibility of additional individuals still inside the home.
Initial arriving crews encountered a 2-story, wood-framed single-family residence with heavy fire conditions visible from multiple sides and floors of the structure. Firefighters immediately initiated fire attack, search operations, ventilation, and evacuation efforts.All four occupants and two dogs were safely evacuated from the residence prior to interior search operations. Several occupants were evaluated on scene after reportedly jumping from a second-story porch roof to escape the fire. No serious civilian injuries were reported.
Fire crews quickly brought the fire under control in approximately 30 minutes. Primary and secondary searches of the structure, including the basement, confirmed no occupants remained inside.
During overhaul operations, firefighters located three deceased cats inside the residence.
The American Red Cross was contacted to assist displaced occupants with emergency resources and housing assistance.Xcel Energy responded to secure gas and electrical utilities to the residence. The Eau Claire Police Department assisted with traffic control and scene security.
The cause and origin investigation was conducted by ECFD fire investigators with assistance from on-scene crews. The incident remains under investigation.
