Firefighters are shown at the back of the apartment at 506 N. Wade Lane, North Webster, where siding has been removed to reach the electrical wiring. (Photo by Deb Patterson)

North Webster Fire Department is at the scene of an apartment fire at 506 N. Wade Lane, Apt. 3, just off Crystal Flash Road.

Initially reported at 4:22 p.m. as a possible electrical fire, Fire Chief Jeremy Likens was first on the scene and reported a working fire. Turkey Creek Fire Territory was called to assist with an engine with the department also being placed on standby for North Webster.

Fire officials were awaiting the arrival of NIPSCO to shut off the electric, allowing firefighters to gain access to the attic to further investigate. Likens reports while there was a fire, it is too early in the investigation to determine the extent of the damage.

Carl Eby, occupant of the apartment, stated he had been home for a while when he started smelling smoke and began looking around. He found smoke coming from the bedroom, where the electrical panel is located. “Next thing you know, bam, the power goes out,” he stated. He called 911 to alert the fire department.

Eby and his cat, were able to escape, unharmed.

More details will be posted when it becomes available.

Firefighters put on air packs to enter the apartment at 506 North Ward Lane, Apt. 3, North Webster. (Photo by Deb Patterson)