MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Fire Department reported three individuals and one cat escaped unharmed following a late-night fire at their residence Friday night.

The Muscatine Joint Communications Center (MUSCOM) received a 911 call at 10:32 p.m. Friday (July 28) about a residence at 2027 Lucas Street with smoke in its basement. MUSCOM dispatched the Muscatine and Fruitland Fire Departments to the scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters found an active fire in the basement. The home’s construction allowed the fire to spread to the attic. The basement fire was knocked down, but it took several more hours to control the fire in the attic and second story.

The fire was declared under control around 12:20 a.m. Fire personnel focused on hot spots and salvage operations of belongings until around 2:15 a.m. The home was under normal use and occupied by three people and one cat. All got out and are doing well.

Battalion Chief Gary Ronzheimer said that the Muscatine Fire Department is extremely grateful for the mutual aid assistance from multiple fire departments in the area, including Fruitland, Wilton, Blue Grass, and some off-duty personnel. A total of 34 personnel responded to the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting the family.