Crews battle Cudahy apartment fire amid frigid temps

CUDAHY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A Cudahy apartment fire has displaced more than 40 residents -- almost all of them senior citizens. 

The fire, which took place in the Washington Square apartment complex on South Packard Avenue, began around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16. Residents say the heard fire alarms and were told to evacuate shortly after. 

“I went out my hallway and saw the firemen and he said downstairs. So, I went to my apartment, grabbed my coat and left," said Margaret Grosskreuz, a resident. 

First responders say the fire began in the walls of the third floor and spread quickly. 

“As the fire progressed, it got up into the attic," said Jeff Bloor, the fire chief with the Cudahy Fire Department. 

The cold temperatures made the fire difficult for both firefighters and residents. One man was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation.

"This is one of those types of fires that we talk about having, but hope we never have," said Chief Bloor. “We also have the challenge of finding a place for them to go.”

More than 40 residents were shuttled to the Cudahy Family Library. Around 3 a.m., they were moved to the Holler Park Shelter in Milwaukee. 

“Such a bad situation for some of the people that are disabled and elderly. Of course I am elderly, but I am ambulatory more than most," said Michelle Piche, a resident. 

Piche says they're still waiting for heat at Holler Park -- something the Red Cross says it's working on. 

"You can’t really sleep well because it’s very cold," said Grosskreuz.

Grosskruez says she has no idea what's next. 

“It’s a little scary not knowing exactly where we’re going to be and when we’re going to get back in," she said. 

The Red Cross says they may move the displaced residents to a different shelter. Both Grosskruez and Piche say they hope to get answers, soon.