WHITEWATER, Wis. -- Fire damages a restaurant and forces the evacuation of surrounding buildings - including an animal shelter - in Whitewater early Saturday morning.
Fire officials say the fire started around 6 a.m. at Rosa's Pizza on Main Street. Fire crews found heavy smoke pouring out of the back of the building. It's believed the blaze started in the kitchen.
Several apartments were damaged. The Red Cross is helping assist those victims. Damage to the restaurant and apartments is estimated at $300,000.
A number of cats were safely rescued from an animal shelter nearby, as well. The home of the non-profit "Touched by a Paw' animal rescue group was damaged by the fire. A large amount of food and supplies were lost in the fire.
The group is accepting donations for the supplies lost in the fire. Donation information can be found here.
