On Sunday, July 6, 2025, at approximately 10:30 p.m., the Ottumwa Fire Department was dispatched for a reported fire at 311 East Main Street in downtown Ottumwa.
First arriving units found heavy smoke conditions and, after further operations, found advanced fire conditions within the building. These advanced fire conditions quickly upgraded the incident to a second and third alarm fire.
Ultimately, multiple fire departments from around Wapello County responded to assist with this incident. The building received significant damage, while adjoining buildings received smoke, water, and minor structural damage. The fire is currently under investigation by the Ottumwa Fire Department, with assistance from the Iowa State Police Fire Investigations Unit.
There were no civilian injuries, though multiple City of Ottumwa Firefighters were transported to Ottumwa Regional Health Center for evaluation. All Firefighters have since been released.
