2 firefighters hurt in southwest Ohio apartment blaze

CINCINNATI (AP) — Two firefighters have been hurt after responding to a southwest Ohio apartment complex blaze.

Cincinnati Fire Chief Richard Braun tells The Cincinnati Enquirer one firefighter is in “dire straits” after apparently falling down an elevator shaft while trying to rescue residents. He was removed by stretcher.

Another was also taken to a hospital after suffering second-degree burns.

Their names or conditions weren’t released immediately.

The fire was reported at about 5:45 a.m. today at King Towers complex. Firefighters rescued upper-floor residents by ladder. Authorities at the scene say several residents have been treated for smoke inhalation. They said they believed everyone had been rescued.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.