Fourplex Fire in Oelwein Sparked by Outlet

An electrical malfunction is apparently the cause of a house fire in Oelwein Friday (Dec. 9) morning.
Oelwein FireFighters were summoned at about 6am to a four-plex apartment dwelling located at 420 1st Street NE. The building is owned by Ron Winter.

All of the occupants were able to escape unharmed.

Fire crews initially attacked the blaze on the 2nd floor, where there was smoke and fire evident. The fire then spread into the attic. Firefighters were then able to extinquish the blaze.

A damage estimate to the apartments is not available.

According to Oelwein Fire Chief Wallace Rundle, the blaze originated from an electrical outlet in the building.