Seven people were forced from their homes as fire destroyed an apartment on 11th Street, NW today.

The fire, which began in the kitchen of an apartment at 2914 11th Street, NW, gutted the second story apartment and sent dozens of people scurrying into the street.

District fire investigators say the fire appears to be accidental, but it remains under investigation. Smoke alarms did work properly. Damage estimates are not yet available.

"There was very heavy smoke and fire damage in the kitchen and living room," said Battalion Chief and incident commander Wayne Benson. "It's rather lucky that this fire happened when it did (approx. 10:30 am). If people had been sleeping in the apartment, we almost certainly would have had some serious injuries."

Chief Benson praised the quick work of firefighters from Engines 4, 9, 6 and 24 and Ladder Truck Companies 6 and 9 for their fast actions in locating the fire and bringing it under control without injuries to either civilians or firefighters.