Late Tuesday night, a devastating house fire in Council Bluffs claimed the life of one woman and left another resident injured. Firefighters responded to an emergency call at 11:18 p.m. reporting a basement fire in a home near South 20th Street and Seventh Avenue.
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Smoke was visible from the back of the structure when crews arrived. According to authorities, firefighters acted quickly to locate the source of the fire and rescue the individual trapped inside the basement. Tragically, the victim, identified as 70-year-old Peggy Lee Rayner, succumbed to her injuries despite rescue and resuscitation efforts.
Four other individuals were in the house at the time. One resident experienced smoke inhalation and is recovering in stable condition, while the remaining three escaped unharmed. Fire crews successfully extinguished the fire, limiting its spread to the basement area.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with officials examining the scene for any potential safety violations or electrical malfunctions that may have contributed to the blaze.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of house fires and the importance of fire safety measures, including working smoke alarms and an updated evacuation plan. The bravery of the firefighters and first responders was evident as they risked their lives to save others during the chaotic and dangerous situation.
