Three hospitalized after apartment floor collapses

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LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW) - Three people are hospitalized after a floor collapsed in a second-floor apartment, Saturday night, according to the La Crosse Fire Department.

Crews responded to a 911 call around 11 p.m. at 135 S. 6th Street.

When firefighters arrived at the scene, they did not find any people in the building. Occupants had gotten themselves out, according to La Crosse Fire Department Division Chief Mark Amann.

The fire department is not releasing much information on what caused the floor to collapse. When fire crews arrived, they smelled an odor of natural gas at the back of the building, Amann said. Firefighters turned off the gas valve and power to the building.

Following a building inspection early Sunday morning, the building inspector deemed the building condemned. Large signs are posted outside the front and back of the building.

The building was then handed over to the owner of the property, who secured the building, said Fire Department officials.

The Red Cross and the Salvation Army will assist any displaced tenants who need assistance.

The La Crosse Police Department is assisting with the investigation.

From NBC15's sister station WEAU-TV in Eau Claire