Fire reported at Washington home Sunday afternoon

Washington — Emergency crews responded to a house fire in Washington on Sunday, Aug. 31, at 705 S. Avenue B.

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At approximately 3 p.m., a caller told emergency dispatchers that her friend’s house was on fire, but everyone was safe and out of the residence.

Washington Fire Department led the response, with assistance from Ainsworth Fire, Kalona Fire, medical units, and law enforcement. Alliant Energy also responded, and officials notified the American Red Cross. Emergency personnel blocked South Avenue B for an extended period while crews worked the scene.

“[It was] a couple houses down,” neighbor Ashley Roate said. “It wasn’t big enough to show flames from the outside but there was lots of smoke.”

According to Washington Fire Chief Brendan DeLong, the fire began in the basement.

“The cause is undetermined, but originated around the stove area,” he reported.

While DeLong noted “significant damage,” no injuries were reported.

Roate stated she did not know the family well, as she had intended to get to know them after school started.

“Sad part is they just moved in there a couple months ago,” she said.

According to Beacon records, Diana and Ignacio Arreola purchased the home in June. Many in the community may recognize the couple from their work at Morelia Mexican Restaurant.

By Sunday evening, emergency crews had left the property. The home’s doors remained open, and caution tape wrapped around the entire house.

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Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com