Fire Damages 2nd Floor Apartment

City of Madison firefighters were called to a house fire this afternoon at 1:49. As firefighters arrived, they observed flames from the second floor at 1714 Vahlen St. on the City's northeast side. The residence contains three separate living units. Only one person was home at the time of the fire. The resident escaped without injury. Crews contained the fire damage to the 2nd floor apartment, with knockdown recorded at 2:00 p.m. There was significant fire damage at the rear of the apartment and smoke damage throughout. The two apartments on the first floor had minimal damage. The occupant of the apartment reported she heard the smoke alarm sounding and exited the building. Firefighters also rescued the occupant's cat. Another cat is missing. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damages are estimated at $75,000.