NORFOLK – Five people are homeless following a fire that destroyed a mobile home at 1781 NYS Hwy. 420 early this morning.

The Norfolk Fire Department responded at 12:25 a.m. to the home occupied by Melvin Murray and four others. Property owner is Herbie Sweet, said St. Lawrence County fire investigators.

The blaze started in the garage and quickly spread to the mobile home, which is located within ten feet of the garage, investigators said. Cause of the fire is under investigation.

Both buildings have been declared a total loss and the American Red Cross was called in for assistance with the two adults and three children.

The family dog was saved, but several cats perished in the fire, investigators said.

No injuries were reported.

Mutual aid was provided by the Massena, Helena, Brasher-Winthrop and Louisville fire departments. The Norfolk Rescue Squad also responded. The Norwood Volunteer Fire Department was on standby.

Norfolk firefighters returned to the station at 4:55 a.m.

Investigators said the tenants did not have renters insurance and they did not know if the buildings were insured.