(ABC 6 News) – The Albert Lea Fire Department got called to a house fire at around 3 p.m. today. When they arrived, firefighters could see damages to the home from the roof to the foundation.

For hours, fire fighters and other first responders on scene battled against the flames.

“We had Albert Lea PD was here, Mayo Clinic ambulance service, their ambulance was on site, and we did call Glenville for assistance, and they stood by for extra assistance, if need be,” ALFD chief Jeff Laskowske said.

Through combined efforts they were able to put the fire out, but the damage had already been done. Thankfully, all eight people inside were able to get out safely.

Now, the family of eight is forced to search for temporary housing. Local charitable organizations are stepping up to help.

“We have different groups working with American Red Cross, United Methodist Church with our sheltering system, Freeborn County Emergency Management, they’re all working with the family right now to find assistance and housing for them to be able to get into,” chief Laskowske said.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, but the fire marshal has begun their investigation.

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(ABC 6 News) — At 3 p.m. on Thursday, the Albert Lea Fire Department responded to a house fire on Viking Avenue.

Upon response, there were up to eight people inside of the home, but they were all evacuated safely.

ALFD has deemed the house a total loss and was assisted by Glenville Fire, Mayo Clinic, and Albert Lea Public Safety.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.