05/26/2026
At 9:03 a.m. on Jan. 27, 2026, the North Liberty Fire Department was dispatched for a reported structure fire at the rural address 3045 Forest Ridge Drive NE, Iowa City. A neighbor called 911 with a report of flames and smoke coming from the two-story residence.
A Johnson County Sheriff’s Deputy was the first unit on scene and reported heavy fire conditions from the rear of the structure. Iowa City Engine 1 arrived shortly thereafter and initiated an aggressive fire attack on the rear of the residence. North Liberty Engine 411 and Truck 415 arrived soon after, made entry into the structure, and encountered heavy fire conditions.
A primary search of the residence was conducted promptly, and no victims or pets were found.
Fire suppression efforts were challenged by strong winds, freezing temperatures, and the absence of nearby fire hydrants, which required the activation of a third alarm to ensure an adequate water supply and staffing.
Fire departments from Iowa City, Coralville, Solon, Swisher, Tiffin, Oxford, and West Branch assisted at the scene. Additional support was provided by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department, Johnson County Ambulance Service, and the Johnson County Emergency Communications Center.
Crews remained on scene for just under five hours. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and a damage estimate is not available at this time.
No injuries were reported.
