March 29, 2024

Home lost, no injuries in morning Mingo fire

No injuries were reported in the aftermath of a Sept. 24 house fire near Mingo, but fire crews said the one-story unit was a total loss.

Loud pops were reported at the rural Jasper County home at 8986 W. 108th St. N. just before 10 a.m. by the homeowners. Initial reports that an explosion started the fire were unfounded.

Baxter Fire Chief Dan Ritter said on scene he believes the fire was caused by faulty electrical wiring and originated in the attic. It took fire crews from five area departments 2.5 hours to get the blaze under control. The roof of the mobile home was nearly gone and Ritter said the house is likely a total loss.

The homeowners declined an interview Sept. 24. Investigators said pets were lost in the fire.

Colfax, Mingo, Collins, Melbourne and Maxwell Fire Departments also responded to the fire. Baxter police also directed traffic while firefighters battled the blaze.

Contact Alex Olp at aolp@newtondailynews.com