(Fort Dodge, Iowa) – Officials with the Fort Dodge Police Department, Wednesday evening, reported that a 13-year-old male was arrested in connection with a structure fire that occurred at around 1:18-a.m. Sunday, October 22nd, 2023.

A caller to the Webster County Telecommunications Center indicated the townhome at 332 Ave M. West was on fire. The Fort Dodge Fire Department, along with the Fort Dodge Police Department responded to the scene. Upon arrival the first officer saw a working structure fire. As more officers arrived, they worked to make sure residents were evacuating the townhomes located in the same complex as 332. Fort Dodge Fire arrived on scene and immediately attacked the fire that was spreading quickly to other townhomes. The Fort Dodge Fire Department called in additional personnel to aid them at the scene. The fire was eventually brought under control at approximately 3:00 A.M.

Upon investigation into the cause of the fire, it appeared to be suspicious in nature. An investigator with the State Fire Marshalls Office, as well as investigators with the Fort Dodge Police Department and the Fort Dodge Fire Department were called to the scene. Investigators worked the scene, spoke to witnesses, and gathered evidence.

Following the incident, Investigators continued to track down leads and gather information. As a result of the investigation thus far, the aforementioned unidentified teen was arrested for Reckless Use of Fire (a Serious Misdemeanor). The juvenile suspect was transported to Central Iowa Detention in Eldora and the case is being referred to the Webster County Attorney’s Office and Juvenile Court Services for further action.

Investigators are continuing to follow up on the incident and encourage anyone with information to contact police immediately. Information may also be submitted anonymously via Crime Stoppers. As in all matters, the suspect is considered innocent of all charges until proven guilty by a court of law.

The Fort Dodge Police Department was assisted in this investigation by the Fort Dodge Fire Department, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Webster County Attorney’s Office.