11 people displaced by early morning fire

An early morning fire has left nearly a dozen people without a place to live, at least temporarily.

The Duluth Fire Department got the call around 4:30am, to 1701 E 1st Street.

There, they found heavy smoke coming from two floors of the three-floor, multi-family building.

11 residents were able to get out safely, after being alerted by the smoke alarms. One did have a minor burn.

According to the department, three cats died, but one is expected to survive.

The American Red Cross is assisting residents with resources. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.