10 escape from burning Rockford apartment building

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Seven residents trapped on the second floor of a burning apartment building were able to escape from a window early Monday morning.

According to Rockford Fire Department, the call came in around 3:09 a.m., sending firefighters to the 1700 block of 4th Street, where they found heavy smoke coming from the rear, first floor porch area.

The fire blocked the stairway exit for the second floor residents. Firefighters were able to get the upper tenants to jump from a window, and were also able to save a family dog.

In total, ten people have lost their homes in the fire.

One person suffered a minor injury and was treated by medical personnel.

Authorities said the cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation.

The fire caused an estimated $14,000 in damages to the property.