A fire Monday evening in Forward Township claimed the lives of two individuals, according to a news release from Pennsylvania State Police.

According to the release, the fire occurred at about 5:30 p.m. at 396 Old Route 68.

Initial Butler County Emergency Service Dispatch reports said a woman called reporting her couch was on fire. The dispatcher reported the woman was no longer on the line, but crackling could be heard through the phone. At the time, they were unsure if the woman had exited the structure.

Shortly after, emergency responders at the scene reported a “fully involved” structure fire.

Evans City Area volunteer firefighters reported receiving a text alerting them of two occupants in the structure.

According to dispatch reports, firefighters circled the structure, but were unable to make entry.

At about 6 p.m., dispatch reported emergency responders had located one individual outside the building, but another was still inside.

Around the same time, emergency responders also briefly lost track of one of the firefighters at the scene, but located the individual minutes later.

At about 6:30 p.m., dispatchers reported the fire was under control and personnel were awaiting the arrival of the fire marshal. At about 8:30 p.m., emergency responders cleared the scene.

State police information confirming two individuals died in the incident was released at about 9:50 p.m.

According to dispatch reports, a number of dogs may also have been trapped in the fire.