Three-unit apartment house in Lowville destroyed in Sunday blaze; all tenants and two cats escape unharmed

LOWVILLE- All tenants who lived in the Lowville, NY apartment house that was completely destroyed in a Sunday afternoon blaze escaped without harm, according to emergency officials.

It was shortly before 6:00 p.m. when witnesses called 9-1-1 to report a structure fire at 5440 Park Place Drive. Lowville Fire Department was the primary responder, with Castorland, Martinsburg and New Bremen all providing mutual aid.

A portion of North State Street, between the four corners and the post office, was shut down while firefighters were on scene.

At first, it was unclear if everyone was accounted for, according to Fire Chief Joe Austin. However, it is confirmed that all people (at-least seven) living there managed to escape, without harm, and are currently receiving assistance via the Red Cross.

Furthermore, firefighters learned there were two cats that were inside during the blaze. Miraculously, the pair of lucky felines were found, alive, and returned safely to their owners.

Chief Austin says the structure, reportedly owned by Margaret Hanno, is a total loss.

Although the cause is still unofficial, authorities say the most likely reason stems from an improperly disposed cigarette on the back porch of the building, which was near some combustibles.

Image by John Robert.