Several people were rescued shortly after 1 a.m. today when
flames raced through a multi-story story home at 114 East Oak Street in Olean.
According to radio reports (unconfirmed by fire officials), at one point, a stairwell was blocked by fire, and
four people were trapped on a rear fire escape. Word came later that everyone
had been safely removed from the home. Interior firefighters encountered smoke
and flames on the upper stories of the building. Westons Mills, Portville and
Allegany all provided assistance to the city. National Grid reported more than
50 customers without power. No word on injuries. The cause remains under
investigation.
UPDATE: A total of six people were safely evacuated from the apartment house that contained five apartments. There were no injuries. The building sustained severe damage.
