Fire destroyed two houses and damaged a third in the Warwood neighborhood of Wheeling late Friday, although everyone inside the three residences escaped unharmed. Photo by Philip Stahl

Fire destroyed two houses and damaged a third in the Warwood neighborhood of Wheeling late Friday, although everyone inside the three residences escaped unharmed.

Wheeling firefighters were called to 515 Warwood Ave. about 11 p.m. after the resident called emergency responders about a fire in the house’s basement, Wheeling public safety spokesman Philip Stahl said.

The fire quickly spread to a house at 517 Warwood Ave., destroying both of the structures, Stahl said. Another house at 513 Warwood Ave. sustained exterior damage.

It took about three hours for firefighters to control the blaze, and they remained at the scene until early this morning. Wheeling firefighters are investigating the cause of the blaze, which they think started in the basement, Stahl said.

“They’ll rummage through the debris today and try to find a cause,” Stahl said. “It will be a challenge. The structures are very weak and will have to be demolished soon.”

The American Red Cross was at the scene to assist the displaced residents. Stahl did not immediately know how many residents were affected by the fire.

Warwood Avenue was closed during the overnight hours and re-opened this morning.