KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A four-alarm fire that broke out early Thursday morning at 20 Elliot Street in Keene is now substantially under control, according to an afternoon update from the City of Keene.

The Keene Fire Department responded to the blaze around 8:15 a.m., initially calling a second alarm before quickly escalating it to a fourth alarm as flames spread through the residential structure. Three firefighters were transported to Cheshire Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries, city officials confirmed.

Crews remain on scene this afternoon to extinguish remaining hot spots and ensure the fire is fully contained. An investigation into the cause of the fire will begin once it is safe to do so.

Students from nearby Wheelock Elementary School were safely evacuated earlier in the morning and transported to Keene Middle School as a precaution. Keene Police closed Main Street from the Route 101 intersection to the Marlborough/Winchester Street roundabout, and drivers are still urged to avoid the area.

The City also advised residents that some may notice temporary discolored water due to the large volume of water used in firefighting efforts.

Officials expressed their gratitude for the extensive mutual aid response from regional fire and EMS departments, which provided both on-scene assistance and city coverage during the incident.

“The City is sincerely grateful to all responders,” the official release stated.

Further details on the cause and extent of the damage are expected to be released as the investigation continues.

Read earlier stories:

BREAKING NEWS: Blaze Erupts on Elliot Street in Keene; Main Street Closed as Crews Battle Blaze – My Keene Now