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At 01:11 a.m., early this morning, the Duluth Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 1603 E 4th St. Upon arrival at a 3 story 6 unit apartment building, firefighters encountered the entire front of the building involved in heavy fire extending into the structure. Prior to arrival, there was a report of people still in the building. Crews encountered 2 residents in the rear needing medical attention. Gold Cross ambulance immediately transported these 2 residents to Essential Health. 3 additional residents were also transported to Essentia. Firefighters attacked fire on the front porch extending into the 1st floor and quickly knocked the flames down. A search of the building found no residents still inside. At least 4 cats and a dog died in the fire. Another dog was revived by fire crews. The fire department estimates 16-19 residents evacuated the building prior to and as firefighters arrived. Working smoke detectors alerted occupants to this fire. Initial damage estimate is in excess of $100,000. 21 firefighters from the Downtown, UMD, Woodland, and Lakeside stations responded to this fire. The fire in under investigation by the Duluth Fire Marshal's office. In addition to the injured residents, a Duluth Firefighter who fell through the front porch is being treated at Essentia Health for non-life threatening injuries.