The Fitchburg Fire Department received a pre-alert notification at 11:56 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2014 from the Dane County Communications Center for a possible structure fire at 5502 Williamsburg Way in the City of Fitchburg. This is a two-story/two-family duplex, with occupants on both sides.
Fitchburg Engine 2 arrived at approximately 12:00 and the officer was directed around to the rear of the building by one of the residents. Fire was visible but was extinguished quickly. When Fitchburg Ladder 1 arrived the crew assisted the engine crew with overhaul (searching for possible extension of fire or smoldering areas that could ignite, as well as protecting the scene for the investigator).
The residents of the affected side of the property are working with the Red Cross to find temporary shelter until their power can be turned back on.
The fire is still under investigation but appears to have been caused by an electrical malfunction in some wiring located in an exterior wall; the cause does not appear to be suspicious in nature. Damage is estimated to be $8,000 - 10,000.