'It’s a nightmare': Woman and 2 dogs found dead in West Allis house fire

 

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- West Allis police and the fire department say they responded to a deadly house fire that claimed the lives of a woman and two dogs. 

"It's horrible, it's just horrible," said Mark Caravella, the victim's brother. "It’s a nightmare."

It happened on Saturday, Dec. 14th at around 12:35 a.m., near South 57th and Walker in West Allis.

Police say while on patrol, they observed a fire at the house. The West Allis Fire Department was immediately dispatched to the scene to fight the flames. 

"The whole street from that corner to that corner, it was nothing but flashing lights, fire trucks, police cars," said neighbor Diane Damask. 

Fire officials say they faced challenges during the search of the home, as it was stockpiled with various items creating a severe hoarding situation.

While completing the search, a woman was located dead inside of the residence. Two other dogs were also found dead, with a third being found alive inside a kennel.  

"She was a good person," said Caravella.

Neighbors are in shock and were frightened to see flames engulfing the home.

"I guess there's no words to really describe it," said Damask. "It's just like oh my god, because we would see her and you know you wave, and you know just think nothing can happen."

West Allis Police and the West Allis Fire Department are investigating the cause of the fire.