Fire displaced two families

PORTLAND, Conn. (WTNH) -- A fire that started in the basement of a home, displaced two families.

On Monday around 4:30 p.m., the Portland Fire Dept. with help from the Middletown and Glastonbury Fire Departments, responded to a reported structural fire at 16 Riverside Street.

There was smoke throughout the first floor of the home and a small fire in the basement, officials reported. There was also water damage throughout the basement and first floor living room.

The home was occupied at the time of the fire and had working smoke detectors.

Officials said the victim's families are assisting them with temporary housing.

Portland Fire Marshal Raymond Sadjak said in a press release the fire originated in the basement where the fireplace meets the structural framing.

The cause is under investigation.