The Burlington Fire Department responded to an apartment fire Monday evening that resulted in significant damage to a rural residence and the loss of a family pet.
At approximately 6:54 p.m. on June 23, 2025, emergency crews were dispatched to 3750 Old Highway 61 following reports of a fire at a four-plex apartment complex. Firefighters arrived on scene within six minutes and found flames visible from one of the units in the single-story building.
The residence, owned by Shipley Construction and insured at the time of the fire, housed multiple families. All occupants were able to evacuate safely before firefighters arrived. Unfortunately, one cat perished as a result of the blaze.
Firefighters were able to contain the fire to a single apartment unit, preventing further spread and damage to the rest of the structure. Notably, smoke alarms were not present in the affected unit.
The Burlington Fire Department received assistance at the scene from the West Burlington, Wever, Gladstone, and Denmark Fire Departments, as well as the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office, Access Energy, and the American Red Cross. No injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Burlington Fire Department and the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Burlington Fire Department at (319) 753-8396.
Fire Marshal Robert Berndt indicated that additional updates will be provided as the investigation continues.