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Duplex fire that displaces 12 ruled accidental

A fire that damaged a city duplex and forced two families out of their homes has been ruled accidental.

Altoona Fire Inspector Tim Hughes said careless smoking was the cause of Monday’s fire on the 800 block of 22nd Street that started about 1:20 p.m.

Altoona firefighters responded in three minutes and had the fire, which started in the second story of 852 22nd St., under control in about 20 minutes.

The fire spread to the attic, and firefighters spent another 20 minutes attacking flames in the walls and crawl space, according to fire officials at the scene.

A total of 12 people had to find shelter Monday after the fire. They were assisted by the American Red Cross.

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