A total of five adults and nine children were displaced after a fire broke out in their duplex located at 207 Richardson Avenue around 10:00 Monday night.
Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department's Districts 1 and 3 and Rescues 2 and 8 were dispatched to the scene. When they arrived, they discovered the front of the structure engulfed in flames.
According to Shift Commander Tim Swann, a heavy fire load made it difficult to extinguish the fire. Crews were finally able to put the blaze out.
Several animals were rescued from the home, including a hedgehog, hamster, and two cats. At least five other cats are unaccounted for at this time. Five dogs in the back yard were unharmed.
Assistant Fire Marshal Michael Bartlett was called to the scene to investigate. "At this time, it appears that the fire started in the front, living room area of 207A," said Bartlett. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
"Fortunately, no one was injured," said Swann. "Most of the fire damage was contained to the front of the structure, but there was heavy smoke damage throughout," he continued.
Most of the victims were able to find alternative living arrangements. However, two adults will be receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.
More information will be released as it becomes available.