Woonsocket, RI ~ A fire broke out in an 87-unit elderly/section 8 housing apartment complex that was built in 1895 that once served as a private school around 0530am. Woonsocket companies were initially dispatched to the location for a box alarm.

The occupant was reported outside walking his dog prior to the fire breaking out. Engine 3 arrived first due and investigated the panel and then made their way to the zone in alarm. Engine 1 took position at Park Ave and Carrington Street and found heavy fire venting from a ground floor window.

A working fire was sounded bringing the rest of the city's companies. Sprinklers operated in the fire apartment and also 2 hand lines were used to knock the fire down. Thirty occupants had to be evacuated with the rest sheltered in place.

Mutual Aid EMS responded to the scene with out of town companies covering the stations. The fire did have minor extension to the floor above the fire. Heavy smoke damage was also sustained to the building.