PLATTSBURGH -- Officials are investigating whether a small fire inside a city apartment was intentionally set.

Plattsburgh City Police and firefighters were called to the Lakeside Apartments Monday evening when flames erupted inside a bathroom of one of the Margaret Street units, which was rented by the Atkinson family.

City Fire Chief Paul Williams said smoke was billowing from under the apartment's door when crews arrived around 6:30 p.m.

He said the fire "was put out very fast" and caused little damage to the one-bedroom apartment.

Officials were continuing to investigate the cause of the fire Tuesday and suspect that it may have been intentionally set.

Police have spoken with the tenants, who were home at the time, but did not release any information about the investigation Tuesday.

No one was injured during the fire.

The Red Cross is appealing for help for the Atkinsons, who need a twin mattress, couch, end tables and a TV.

People can contact the family directly at 578-9390.

avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com