Milwaukee, WI – One Dead, Two Injured in Apartment Fire Near Mitchell Airport

‍Milwaukee, WI (November 10, 2025) – A devastating early-morning fire near Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport left one person dead and two others injured on Saturday, November 8. According to Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski, firefighters were called to the scene of a second-alarm blaze around 6:30 a.m. near South Howell Ave and West Layton Ave.

When fire crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were already pouring from the 20-unit apartment building. Officials said several residents were trapped inside while others were forced to jump from windows to escape the growing flames. Approximately 70 first responders, including multiple fire and rescue teams, worked tirelessly to control the fire and rescue those inside. Fire Chief Lipski also noted that the apartment building did not have a sprinkler system.

Tragically, one person was pronounced dead at the scene. Two others were taken to a nearby hospital with injuries, though their current conditions have not been released. 

The American Red Cross reported that 20 units were damaged, displacing at least 14 residents. A temporary shelter has been opened to assist those who lost their homes. The Milwaukee Fire Department confirmed that the blaze was contained, and investigators are now working to determine its cause. 

Our deepest sympathies go out to the family of the deceased victim. We also hope those hurt make a rapid recovery.

Apartment Fires and Building Safety in Milwaukee

Apartment fires like the one near Milwaukee Mitchell Airport serve as a stark reminder of the importance of proper fire safety measures in residential buildings. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the presence of sprinkler systems can reduce the risk of death in a fire by as much as 80%, yet many older buildings still lack these life-saving systems.

In Milwaukee, where a significant portion of the housing stock predates modern fire codes, building safety remains a pressing issue. Fires can spread quickly through multi-unit dwellings, particularly those without sprinklers, smoke detectors, or proper emergency exits. The lack of such safety features increases the likelihood of serious injuries, fatalities, and widespread displacement of residents.

Victims of apartment fires often face devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. In addition to medical treatment and property loss, survivors may also struggle with relocation costs, loss of personal belongings, and emotional trauma. When property owners or management companies fail to maintain safe living conditions, they may be held liable for damages under Wisconsin premises liability laws.

At Dunk Law Firm, our skilled wrongful death attorney can help victims and families understand their rights, investigate whether negligence contributed to the fire, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost property, and emotional distress.

If you or someone you know has been affected by a residential fire in Milwaukee or anywhere in Milwaukee, Racine, or Waukesha Counties, call the Dunk Law Firm at 414-209-4398 for a consultation. Our experienced attorney can evaluate your case, determine potential liability, and help you seek the justice and recovery you deserve.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.