NEW ORLEANS — New Orleans fire fighters are still working to extinguish the fire at a historic St. Charles Avenue Mansion, though it is under control.
According to an update from the New Orleans Fire Department, firefighters haven't made the "Fire Out" designation as of Thursday afternoon.
The NOFD has four pumping apparatuses supported by 16 fire operations personnel and one Chief Officer at the scene. Those firefighters have been combing through the debris and extinguishing smoldering hot spots while working to maintain the integrity of the scene for investigative purposes.
According to NOFD officials, structural engineers are on site to assist and advise everyone working at the location. Officials expect NOFD's presence to continue for the next 24-48 hours.
The 7-alarm fire started around 7:44 a.m. on Feb. 20 at a three-story Victorian-style mansion at 2525 St. Charles Avenue. Christopher Montgomery told the New Orleans Advocate that his brother-in-law, sister, and their 92-year-old mother got out safely after the fire broke out Wednesday.
New Orleans Fire Department Superintendent Timothy McConnell said the damage to the mansion that has been in the same family for more than 100 years was "catastrophic."
McConnell said it is believed the fire started in the basement, but the cause will not be known until a full investigation has been completed. He said the fire likely funneled up through the middle of the house, up several floors and eventually to the roof. McConnell said the structure of the home is considered a "Balloon-frame construction."
As of 1:45 p.m on Wednesday, the fire was brought under control.
Investigators have yet to determine the fire's cause.