ATHOL, Mass. (AP) — Massachusetts fire officials are investigating an apartment fire that sent at least eight people to the hospital.

The Greenfield Recorder reports (http://bit.ly/2olVixz ) that the severity of their injuries is unclear.

Five different fire departments were called to battle the flames Tuesday afternoon at a two-story apartment building in Athol (ATH'-uhl). It took them more than 2 ½ hours to control the fire.

The state fire marshal's office and a hazardous materials team have been asked to assist in the investigation. The Salvation Army is arranging shelter for the people who lost their homes.

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Information from: The (Greenfield, Mass.) Recorder, http://www.recorder.com