Published on September 24, 2026
At approximately 4:18 p.m. Wednesday, September 23, La Crosse Fire Department crews were dispatched to the 700 block of Oakland Street after a resident reported seeing smoke coming from a downstairs apartment.
Crews arrived within two minutes and quickly extinguished the fire using a portable water extinguisher. The fire was contained to the apartment where it originated, which sustained moderate damage. No one was injured, and all residents returned home once the scene was cleared.
La Crosse Fire Department investigators determined an overheated bathroom exhaust fan caused the fire.
As we approach Fire Prevention Week, this is a good reminder that working smoke alarms provide an important early warning when a fire starts, especially when no one is nearby to see or smell smoke. Residents are encouraged to make sure smoke alarms are installed, working, and never disconnected.