Two fires in the District broke out just minutes apart early Wednesday morning, forcing more than a dozen people from their homes.

The first call to D.C. Fire and EMS came just before 2 a.m. — a basement fire on Kansas Avenue in the Petworth neighborhood in Northwest.

Two firefighters were sent to a hospital with minor injuries. Nine people were displaced, according to the fire department.

Less than 20 minutes later, fire crews were called to a row home on Kentucky Avenue in Southeast D.C.

That fire left seven people and two cats without a home.

No injuries were reported in the fire on Kentucky Avenue.

Final Update: Working Fire – 300 Block of Kentucky Avenue SE – All fire extinguished. Smoke extended to adjacent residences.

Seven adults and two cats displaced as a result of this fire/smoke.

No injuries. pic.twitter.com/0ZcX3Z7vFy

— DC Fire and EMS Department (@dcfireems) March 4, 2026

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