(Villisca, Iowa) Two people suffered from smoke inhalation and minor injuries during a fire Wednesday morning, in Villisca. According to a press release, the incident occurred at around 9:07-a.m., when Villisca Fire/Rescue personnel were dispatched to 129 W. 4th Street. The firs arriving emergency responders reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the structure, with the flames impinging on a neighbor’s house as well.

Firefighters were able to quickly determine the occupants of the home had escaped. Mutual aid was called for from Red Oak Fire/Rescue, the Stanton and Grant Fire Departments. The flames extended from the first floor to the second, and eventually the attic space. The blaze was extinguished and ground operations at the scene were terminated at 12-p.m., Wednesday.

Villisca House Fire, 5/4/22; Villisca FD photo

The occupants – Patricia Graham and Wayne Shook – were transported by Villisca Ambulance to the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital for treatment. Graham is the owner of the home, which was valued at $27,000, and was deemed a total loss. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the residents as needed. Firefighters were able to save some family valuables and turn them over to family members.

Authorities say the Iowa State Fire Marshal was contacted due to there being injuries associated with the incident. The blaze remains under investigation.  In addition to the aforementioned fire and rescue departments, Villisca Fire was assisted at the scene by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Communications Center, Villisca Ambulance, Montgomery County EMA, Villisca Public Works, and the Villisca Electric Company.

Officials also extended their gratitude to the family members who were able to provide information concerning items within the residence, as well as the layout of the home.