MASON CITY – Potentially carelessly tossing away a lit cigarette can have consequences, as the owner of a Mason City property found out Wednesday afternoon when their garage, two vehicles and other items were damaged from a fire.
According to the Mason City Fire Department, on March 26, 2025, at 12:41 PM, the Mason City Fire Department responded to a garage on fire at 515 14th Street NW (pictured at top). Fire crews arrived to find a detached garage on fire. The fire was quickly extinguished.
The owner of the home – listed in records as Kelly Barragan – was on the premises at the time and called 911 after seeing smoke and fire. The garage contained outdoor equipment and two vehicles which all received smoke and heat damage.
According to Assistant Deputy Chief Randy Elsbernd, the fire was contained to the garage but some vinyl siding on the house did melt. The cause of the fire was ruled accidental from improper disposal of cigarettes. No injuries were reported with the fire. The Mason City Fire Department remained on scene until 2:46 PM Cerro Gordo Emergency Management, Mason City Police and street departments assisted at the scene.