MUSCATINE, Iowa - Three people died, one person is in critical condition, and a firefighter suffered minor injuries after a fire in Muscatine.
The first call for help came into the Muscatine Joint Communications Center just before 6:40 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 25.
Fire Marshal Mike Hartman said the original call dispatched firefighters to 1820 Angle Street in Muscatine, but that was the wrong address. Moments later, firefighters rushed to the 100 block of Clinton Street in Muscatine, where a home was fully engulfed in flames.
Crews learned people were trapped inside and began rescue efforts.
Firefighters found a man outside of a window, rescued him, and rushed him to a local hospital; he was later taken to Iowa City for treatment. He was listed in critical condition, according to the fire marshal.
Fire crews at the scene initiated an attack on the flames and smoke. Upon entering the burning home, several rooms were completely engulfed in flames.
While searching the home, three people were found dead.
A pet cat was also rescued and is being treated by a local vet.
News 8 has also learned that one firefighter suffered minor injuries.
Investigators say the cause of the fire is "undetermined," according to a press release. Investigators were led to an "area of origin," but there were too many potential ignition points to specify what started the fire.
The home, valued at about $57,000 is a total loss.
More than $80,000 worth of damage to the structure and the belongings inside the home were caused by the fire, according to the press release from the fire marshal.
Approximately 30 firefighters from several departments, including volunteer and off-duty personal, responded to the fire.
The American Red Cross is now also providing assistance as needed.
Autopsies have been scheduled for the three people killed.
