CRAWFORDSVILLE, Ind. -- Hundreds of animals were killed in a raging fire that destroyed three businesses early Wednesday morning.

The fire broke out just before 3:30 a.m. at a building on Washington Street that housed a pet store, a fireworks store and a tax service.

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Images: Hundreds Of Animals Killed In Fire

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The animals that died included 12 kittens, birds, numerous fish, snakes, rabbits, guinea pigs and other small animals, employees of Pet Products Superstore said. No people were injured.

Crews battled the blaze and searched for anyone inside, but had to pull out of the building after about 30 minutes as the fire grew more intense, 6News' Julie Pursley reported.

"We were in there until the building just wasn't safe to support life anymore," said Crawfordsville Fire Chief Eric Small. "We got out before the walls started to collapse."

Firefighters said they did what they could in an attempt to save the animals.

I'm not going to risk someone's life ... for animals. I think a lot of people get upset, but they have to understand safety is first, and that includes our own people," Small said.

Jackson Hewitt and Cow Fireworks were also destroyed. Thousands of dollars worth of fireworks exploded in the blaze.

Michelle Donahue, one of the owners of the tax service, said she is thankful that employees were not inside at the time.

"We hope the owners plan to rebuild the building," Donahue said.

"When the building's secure, they'll let us get our records out. That's our primary concern right now," said Tonya Storms, another owner of the tax service.

Three fire departments were called in to fight the blaze. Indiana 231, which is also Washington Street, was closed in the vicinity of the fire.

Homes nearby were evacuated as firefighters' efforts turned to saving other structures.

Firefighters said they believe the blaze may have started in the pet store. Police said the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Watch 6News and refresh this page for updates.