Dubuque, Iowa — Firefighters responded swiftly Saturday evening to a residential structure fire at 331 W. 4th Street, bringing the blaze under control within minutes and limiting damage to an estimated $25,000.

The Dubuque Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call at 7:35 p.m. from a worker across the street who reported seeing smoke and fire coming from the roof of the multi-family building. Dispatchers alerted crews within 18 seconds, sending an initial response that included Battalion 1, Engine 1, Medic 1, Truck 1, Engine 5, Engine 6, and Truck 4 — a total of 17 firefighters.

Engine 1 and Battalion 1 arrived on scene within two minutes, confirming heavy smoke conditions. Battalion 1 established command and declared a working fire, requesting an additional engine and medic company. Firefighters quickly deployed a hose line, secured a water supply, and conducted primary and secondary searches of all eight units in the building. They also performed ventilation operations.

During the search, crews located and safely removed one cat from the structure. The fire was brought under control within five minutes of arrival. Crews then spent approximately 60 minutes on scene completing salvage and overhaul operations to extinguish any remaining hot spots and secure the building.

One occupant was displaced by the fire, while all others were able to return to their units. No injuries were reported to residents or firefighters.

The Dubuque Fire Department was assisted on scene by the Dubuque Police Department. Assistant Fire Marshal investigators determined the fire was accidental, caused by the improper disposal of smoking materials.

The incident highlights the effectiveness of rapid response and coordinated firefighting efforts in minimizing damage and protecting lives in Dubuque’s multi-family housing stock.