Home heavily damaged in fire Monday afternoon
By Lori Berglund — Daily Freeman-Journal EditorArticle Photos
A Webster City woman is trying to figure out what to do next after her home was heavily damaged in a fire Monday afternoon.
Rhonda Schoenfelder was not at home when a neighbor or passerby phoned 911 to report smoke coming out of a window of the home at 104 Maple Ave. shortly after 1:30 p.m. Monday.
Upon arrival, smoke was pouring from the home, but no flames were seen. Firefighters were able to quickly put out the fire, which originated in the basement. As of this morning, the most likely cause was considered to be electrical, according to Webster City fire reports.
Heavy smoke damage was reported throughout the home. In addition, there was substantial fire and water damage in the living room and bedroom, according to fire reports. Fire damage was also reported in the basement.
Rev. Travis Schmidt, who visited the scene to comfort Schoenfelder after she had arrived back home, said she also lost most of her clothing in the blaze.
Fortunately, her two pet dogs were with her and were also not hurt. Firefighters had spent some time looking to make sure the dogs were not trapped inside during the fire. Schoenfelder and her pets are currently staying at The Executive Inn. She expects to meet with her insurance company later today.
"I'm doing OK," Schoenfelder said. "I"m just figuring out what to do next."
Schoenfelder was most concerned about family photos that are left in the house. Schoenfelder, who is retired due to health conditions, is not able to go into the home, as there is concern about structural safety of the floor boards.
Schoenfelder has lived in Webster City about five years. She has two daughters who live elsewhere and six grandchildren.
