Hickory firefighters respond to apartment fire

At approximately 13:43 p.m. Monday afternoon, Hickory firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire located in the area of 300 14th Street SW. On arrival at 13:46, firefighters reported smoke coming from the downstairs apartment located at 411 14th Street SW. Firefighters confirmed occupants were out of the burning building and worked to contain the fire. The fire was reported controlled at 13:57 and was confined to one apartment in the building. Hickory Fire Department responded with two engines, one ladder, one rescue truck, and two command units. Hickory Police and Catawba County EMS also responded to the incident. The Red Cross was notified and will be assisting the occupants. Fire Investigators determined the cause of the fire to be unattended cooking.