A Wapello home was destroyed by fire Monday evening, but thankfully no one was hurt.
According to a press release by Josh Michel, Wapello Fire Chief, just before 5:45 Monday night, Wapello Fire crews were dispatched to a structure fire at 804 Pleasant Street. Initial reports indicated a garage fire, but when firefighters arrived about seven minutes later, the garage was fully engulfed and flames were spreading to the attached home.
Due to difficult weather conditions, mutual aid was immediately requested from the Morning Sun Fire Department, and Wapello Community Ambulance was also called to the scene.
Neighbors initially reported that two people might still be inside the home, prompting firefighters to conduct an interior search. No victims were found, and both occupants were accounted for a short time later.
Firefighters battled challenging conditions, including heavy fuel loads, downed power lines, propane tanks, and a natural gas line. Because of those hazards, crews eventually shifted to a defensive firefighting operation.
The fire was brought under control around nine o’clock Monday night, with overhaul operations continuing until about ten, when crews were cleared from the scene.
The home, owned by Omar Ford, was insured, but officials say the residence and its contents are considered a total loss. The cause of the fire remains undetermined and is not considered suspicious, pending an investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
No injuries were reported, and the Red Cross is assisting the displaced family.
Several agencies assisted at the scene, including Morning Sun Fire, Wapello Community Ambulance, the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, and Alliant Energy.
