MUSCATINE, Iowa – At approximately 5:05 a.m. on Sunday, July 6, 2025, the Muscatine Joint Communications Center (MUSCOM) received a 911 call for “tons of smoke coming from the house” near 5th Street and Oak Street. While on route crews were notified the house was on Orange Street in the middle of the 500 block.
Upon arrival heavy smoke was found as well as fire coming from the first floor windows, the second story alley side window, and smoke coming from the eaves. A fire attack was initiated. Firefighting efforts were hampered due to concern about fire impingement on adjacent power lines, so crews adjusted their initial tactics.
Reports on scene were that this is a vacant house and was posted for no occupancy last month. Fire investigators were called in immediately and are presently on scene performing their initial investigative process.
There were no occupants or bystanders, and there were no injuries to any responders. The cause remains under investigation. The initial fire loss is estimated at approximately $80,000.
Fourteen fire fighters from MFD responded to the scene, as well as The Muscatine Police Department and a full crew from the Fruitland Fire Department as part of our automatic aid agreement.
About the Muscatine Fire Department: The Muscatine Fire Department provides fire and emergency medical services, rescues (high angle, rope, water, etc.), building inspections, and public education for the City of Muscatine, and the surrounding unincorporated areas of Muscatine County with a combined population of 43,000 across 145 square miles while also providing HAZMAT for Muscatine, Louisa, Washington, Keokuk, and Henry counties. MFD firefighters and paramedics responded to over 5,500 calls in 2024. The Muscatine Fire Department began as a volunteer fire company on January 7, 1875 and was established as a full-time department in January 1916.
Prepared by:
Mike Hartman, Fire Chief
mhartman@muscatineiowa.gov
563-263-9233