NORWALK, IA – A tragic house fire at this suburban Iowa community caused big monetary damages and two dogs could not be resuscitated by emergency responders as the blaze was extinguished.
On December 22, 2024, at 11:46 AM, the Norwalk Fire Department was dispatched to 1524 Holly Drive on the report of a residential structure fire. Initially, the Norwalk Fire Department responded with an engine and an ambulance with four personnel. While enroute, firefighters observed smoke in the area and immediately upgraded the assignment to a Working Fire – 1st Alarm, requesting assistance from mutual aid agencies.
Upon arrival, firefighters were met with heavy fire coming from the living room and front entrance. Crews initiated an aggressive interior attack to bring the fire under control. During a primary search, crews removed two dogs from the home. Basic life support measures were provided but were unsuccessful.
The Norwalk Fire Department was assisted by the West Des Moines Fire Department, Windsor Heights Fire Department, Norwalk Police Department and Westcom Emergency Communications. One resident was home at the time of the fire and was alerted by working smoke detectors. There were no injuries reported to civilians or firefighters and the family is being assisted by the American Red Cross. Initial damages are estimated at $175,000. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
(TOP PHOTO via Norwalk FD.)