West Philly Apartment Fire Hurts 2, Displaces 60

A two-alarm blaze engulfed a West Philadelphia apartment building, hurt two people -- including a firefighter, and forced more than 60 people from their homes late Thursday night.

The 5-story building, located at 62nd and Chestnut streets, went up in flames shortly around 11:30 p.m., officials said.

Crews, who got the blaze under control at 1:08 a.m. Friday, rescued several residents who were trapped by the heavy smoke and flames, authoritiessaid.

Officials transported two people, including a firefighter, to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where they are in stable condition.

PECO shut power off to the building -- causing about 10 other nearby homes to lose power.

The fire displaced 66 residents, who are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania.

The Red Paw Emergency Relief Team is caring for two cats and two tutles, pets that were rescued from the building.

No word yet on the cause of the blaze. An investigation is underway.

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