The fire started around 3:29 a.m., Monday, March 2, in Dutchess County at 318 Mill St. and 316 Mill St., in the City of Poughkeepsie, said Fire Chief Mark Johnson.
First arriving crews found two floors on fire in the multi-story building with the flames moving upward, the chief said.
After about 30 minutes firefighters moved outside to battle the blaze due to safety reasons, Johnson said.
The fire spread to engulf the empty residence at 316 Mill St., the chief said.
One resident, of 318 Mill St., the building that is being renovated, was able to get out of the home safely, he added.
A firefighter was injured when his foot fell through a floorboard, he was evaluated and treated and the scene, Johnson said.
The fire was under control by around 5:45 a.m., and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Both units are a total loss, Johnson said.
During the fire, a section of Route 44/55 West was closed but has since reopened.
The department was assisted on the scene by the Arlington and Fairview fire departments, as well as Mobil Life. Highland and Roosevelt fire departments provided standby.
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