GhLinks Media
A deadly apartment fire in Milwaukee has left five people dead and four others in critical condition.
The fire broke out early Sunday morning near 27th and Highland, shocking residents and emergency responders.
According to officials, the fire started before 8 a.m. on May 11. Multiple 911 calls reported people trapped inside the building. Thick black smoke and fast-moving flames spread quickly, leaving residents with few options. Some prepared to jump from their windows to survive.
Firefighters from across the city rushed to the scene. Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski said the first crews were quickly overwhelmed and needed backup. Help arrived from nearby cities including West Allis and Wauwatosa.
About 30 people were rescued. Firefighters used ladders and crawled through smoke-filled hallways to pull people out. Many of them worked on their hands and knees to save those stuck inside.
The fire claimed five lives. One of the victims has been identified as Torrell Coleman.
Officials say four other people are in critical condition at the hospital.
At first, authorities reported four deaths. But on Monday morning, Chief Lipski confirmed on social media that a fifth person had died from injuries linked to the fire.
The cause of the fire is still unknown. The State Fire Marshal and the FBI are now investigating.
