East Erie Home Fire

An early morning fire displaced at least one family from their East Erie home, Sunday. The call came in just after midnight in the 600 block of E. 10th St.

All Erie fire units responded to the call, but the timing of a neighbor and a police officer who was first on the scene could have very well saved multiple lives.

Heavy smoke and flames poured through the building as fire fighters battled gusty winds to control the blaze. Lavashia McCullum was out walking to the store when she noticed the glowing flames coming from her neighbors home. She banged on the window until the family inside was awake.

Batya Lindsey and her family were sleeping when the fire broke out. They were able to make it out safely with only the clothes on their backs.

When police first arrived on the scene, one officer ran into the burning building and was able to bring one woman out of the house. Officer Roofner of the Erie Police Department and the woman were treated and released for smoke inhalation.

Fire officials along with the Erie Police Department are still conducting an investigation. No word yet on what may have caused  the fire. Erie Fire Chief Tony Pol wouldn't say whether or not they're considering this a suspicious fire, but neighbors say this isn't the first time this building has caught on fire.