Fire on Lagadia Street in Chicopee displaces 2 families; Chihuahua, initially thought to be missing, found hiding in living room

The fire was sparked by careless disposal of smoking materials, Deputy Chief James McInerney said.

Don Treeger / The RepublicanChicopee firefighters battle house fire at 23-25 Lagadia St.

This is an update of a story originally posted at 8:40 a.m.

CHICOPEE – Improper disposal of smoking materials was the cause of a Friday morning fire on Lagadia Street that displaced two families.

No injuries were reported and a Chihuahua, initially reported missing in wake of the fire, was found to have been hiding under salvage covers that firefighters had placed on top of furniture in the living room to protect it from water damage.

Deputy Chief James McInerney said the Chihuahua came out of its hiding place when its owner returned to look for it after the fire.

The fire, largely confined to the attic, was reported by a passerby shortly before 8:20 a.m. An occupant called 911 a few moments later.

The first arriving companies found smoke coming from the attic and the main entry to it was on fire, McInerney.

Firefighters cut several holes in the roof to vent heat and smoke. Water used to extinguish the blaze compromised the building’s electrical system and the power has been shut-off.

Fire damage was limited to the attic and there was water damage throughout the two units.

McInerney said an electrical inspector will need to inspect the property’s wiring before power can be restored and the families can move back in.

Those displaced have found temporary places to stay, he said.

Seventeen firefighters responded to the blaze, McInerney said.