Fire in Norristown, Pennsylvania, displaces 39 people, damages 10 homes
Thirty-nine people were displaced after a fire damaged 10 homes in Norristown, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday.
The fire happened on the 700 block of Lafayette Street. Crews were called to the scene before 3 p.m., and the fire was placed under control hours later.
Chopper 3 was over the fire and spotted several firefighters on roofs of rowhomes fighting the fire. Firefighters said there was one minor injury but overall everyone is OK.
It's unclear how the fire started.
Many neighbors told CBS News Philadelphia that they saw the fire burning and started banging on the doors of homes.
"Me and another guy, guy was driving by. He stopped his car, jumped out, started banging on the door," said a man who saw the fire. "I'm looking out my window and I'm seeing the smoke come from the air conditioner from the second floor. And by the time we banged on the door, nobody answered. We kicked the door open. Two other guys ran in because we saw kids outside prior to that."
"You don't want to see anybody get burnt up, the holiday is tomorrow," he added.
"I don't have nowhere to live," said a woman who lived in one of the damaged homes.
The Red Cross set up a shelter at Blockson Middle School at 1315 West Marshall Street in Norristown for those impacted by the fire. Thursday morning, the agency said 17 people stayed at the shelter overnight, where they're providing meals, space to rest and other support services.
The shelter will remain open on Thanksgiving for those who need it, the Red Cross said.
A reception center is also set up at the Hancock Fire Company at 820 West Airy Street in Norristown for those affected by the blaze.
