State Fire Marshal Investigates Cause of Stewartville House Fire

Stewartville, MN (KROC-AM News) - The State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating a house fire that occurred in Stewartville this morning.

Firefighters Find Heavy Smoke at Split-Level Home

A news release issued by the Stewartville Fire Department says the fire was reported shortly after 5:30 a.m. in the 800 block of Berg Boulevard Southeast. When firefighters arrived at the scene, they discovered heavy smoke coming from both levels of the split-level home.

Two Occupants Escape Before Crews Arrive

The statement indicates the two occupants of the home evacuated before firefighters arrived. The firefighters reported encountering zero visibility and high-heat conditions when they entered the burning house. They initially had to evacuate due to worsening conditions and debris.

Firefighters Encounter Zero Visibility and High Heat

Another effort was made to enter the house through a lower-level entrance, and the news release indicates the firefighters' attack shifted to a defensive exterior posture.

An initial investigation suggests the fire was not suspicious. The news release did not include an assessment of the damage.