(Villisca) Two people suffered injuries in a house fire in Villisca on Wednesday morning. The Villisca Fire and Rescue Department responded to the blaze at 129 W 4th Street at around 9:00 a.m.
Villisca Fire Chief John Bruce stated that heavy smoke and fire could be seen coming from the residence when the first emergency responders arrived. Additionally, the flames affected a neighbor’s home, so firefighters started a defensive ground operation.
Chief Bruce says Firefighters quickly confirmed the occupants escaped the burning structure successfully, and Villisca ambulance transported the two individuals, Patricia Graham and Wayne Shook, to the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation and minor injuries.
Villisca called for Mutual Aid from Red Oak Fire/Rescue, Stanton Fire Dept, and the Grant Fire Departments, and fire ground operations transitioned to Offensive fire ground operations. Firefighters terminated ground operations at noon. Chief Bruce says the fire had extended from the first floor, through the second floor, and then into the attic space.
The Property owner is Patricia Graham of Villisca. The residence is valued at approximately $27,000 and deemed a total loss. The total value of property inside is yet undetermined, however, considered a total loss.
Authorities called in the Red Cross to assist the family as needed.
Due to the injuries sustained in the blaze, the Iowa State Fire Marshall is investigating the fire. Chief Bruce reports no injuries to firefighters or emergency personnel.
Firefighters recovered some family valuables and returned them to the family members.
Villisca Fire Department was assisted by the following: Red Oak Fire/Rescue, Stanton FD, Grant FD, Mont Co Sheriff’s Office, Mont Co Communication, Villisca Ambulance, Mont Co EMA, Villisca Public Works, Villisca Electric Company.
The Villisca Fire Department extends a sincere thank you to the family members able to provide information concerning the items located within the residence and the home’s layout.
The department says thanks to the companies for allowing their employees to serve their communities as Volunteer Fire and Rescue personnel.
(Photo courtesy of the Villisca Fire Department)
