Four departments respond to devastating Peabody house fire
A late Thursday morning fire ravaged a Peabody home.
The two-bedroom house located at 605 N. Chestnut was owned by Scott A. and Madonna K. Ziegler.
Peabody Fire Chief Ronnie Harms, a full-time city employee, said he was reading a water meter at the front of the house when the call came in to respond.
"It appeared the fire started in the middle of the home," Harms said.
A 10-20 mph north wind fueled the fire, which was contained primarily to the roof in the center of the house.
Due to the close proximity of neighboring homes and wind fanning the flames, a call went out to other fire departments for assistance.
In all, four departments responded — Peabody, Florence, Walton, and Newton.
Minor smoke damage was reported at a home north of the Ziegler home at 611 N. Chestnut.
A home located south of the Ziegler home was not damaged.
Harms said he appreciated the assistance from the other fire departments.
"It was unbelievable," Harms said. "Dispatch didn't hear me the first time when I asked for Florence but some Florence firefighters did."
Harms said the firefighters were "chomping at the bit," waiting at the firehouse for the official call.
"That's great when other firefighters are so willing to help out," Harms said.
The structure was valued at $46,900 by Marion County Appraiser's office. Harms said it was considered a total loss. There were no injuries reported.
A preliminary investigation indicated the cause of the fire was electrical-related.
Volunteers from the Sunflower Chapter of the American Red Cross responded and assisted the Ziegler family with lodging, food, and clothing. The organization will continue to work with the family until their basic needs are met.
