MUSCATINE, Iowa – Two individuals were treated for smoke inhalation after being evacuated from a Muscatine apartment complex Sunday. The origin of the fire is currently under investigation by the Muscatine Fire and Muscatine Police departments.
The Muscatine Fire Department was called out at 3:33 p.m. Sunday (February 9, 2025) to a structure fire in Building E of the Cedar Hills Apartments at 2002 Logan Street. Upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke conditions on the two sides entrances of the building while occupants were evacuating.
Fire crews initiated an aggressive fire attack with Engine 311 crew working to suppress the fire while the crew of Truck 310 conducted a primary search and assisted two individuals in safely exiting the structure. Engine 312 provided support to the fire attack, and S354 paramedics treated two individuals for smoke inhalation, both of whom were released on scene. Fruitland Fire provided mutual aid during the response.
The fire was contained to the lower stairwell entrance with fire doors on all levels remaining closed and preventing further spread. Smoke conditions were light throughout the building except in the fire area, and all apartment areas were ventilated and cleared of smoke. No tenants were displaced as a result of the fire.
Due to the nature of the incident, the Muscatine Fire Marshal and State Fire Marshal were contacted, and the fire has been deemed suspicious. The investigation remains ongoing in coordination with the Muscatine Police Department.
A total of 21 personnel responded to the incident, including automatic aid from Fruitland Fire. All fire suppression and overhaul operations were completed, and units were cleared from the scene.
About the Muscatine Fire Department: The Muscatine Fire Department provides fire and emergency medical services, rescues (high angle, rope, water, etc.), building inspections, and public education for the City of Muscatine, and the surrounding unincorporated areas of Muscatine County with a combined population of 43,000 across 145 square miles while also providing HAZMAT for Muscatine, Louisa, Washington, Keokuk, and Henry counties. MFD firefighters and paramedics responded to 5,513 calls in 2024. The Muscatine Fire Department began as a volunteer fire company on January 7, 1875 and was established as a full-time department in January 1916.