PRESS RELEASE: 11/19/20
At 1119 hours on Thursday, November 19, 2020, The Marshalltown Fire Department responded to 2000 East Nevada Street for an unknown fire situation. Upon arrival, a large, well-involved fire is found in the middle of an approximately 6-acre junkyard. Gusty winds, dry grass, brush, and large piled quantities of combustibles along with poor access were complicating factors of the incident. After establishing initial water supply and attack positions, mutual aid was requested from surrounding communities to assist the Marshalltown Fire Department with the extinguishment of the fire. 8 communities, approximately 30 firefighters, 15 pieces of apparatus, and the majority of off-duty MFD personnel responded for mutual aid. Fire Department personnel were at the scene for approximately 7 hours. No civilians or firefighters were injured during the incident. No structures became exposed to fire due to the incident.
The fire was caused by workers using cutting torches on metal near dry grass and brush in high wind conditions.
Albion, Clemens, Gilman, Green Mountain, Laurel, LeGrand, Melbourne, State Center, and Beaman Fire Departments assisted with fire suppression. Unity Point-EMS, Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Marshall County EMA assisted with logistical support. The Marshalltown Police Department Assisted with aerial video recording via drone.
Please contact the Marshalltown Fire Department with questions at 641-754-5751.