Firefighters help 2 escape from house fire in Syracuse

Firefighters helped two people escape from a house fire Thursday night in Syracuse, firefighters said.

Callers to the Onondaga County 911 Center reported seeing flames coming from a front porch at 703 Niagara St. around 7:18 p.m.

Firefighters sprayed the porch while others entered the home to search for residents. Capt. Matt Craner, a spokesperson for the Syracuse Fire Department, said in a news release.

Two people were found inside, one on the first floor and another on the second, Craner said. Both made it outside with some assistance from fire crews, he said.

Flames did not spread from the porch, Craner said. The inside of the home had minor smoke damage, he said.

The residents were displaced and have received assistance from the American Red Cross, Craner said.

Investigators are working to determine what started the fire.

Staff writer Fernando Alba covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, question or comment? Reach him: Email | Twitter or at 315-690-6950.