On Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at approximately 4:16 P.M. a fire was reported at 1534 Albia Rd. Colonial Motor Inn. The report stated there was a room on fire and unknown if anyone was inside. The Ottumwa Fire Department responded will all on duty personnel and three fire apparatus. Upon arrival heavy fire and smoke was found emitting from room 229. The fire was quickly knocked down and the room was searched with no victims located. The fire caused extensive damage to the room and smoke damage throughout the entire structure. The damage is estimated at $50,000. No injuries were reported.
The damage to the structure displaced all of the residents in this building which included five families. The American Red Cross is assisting the families with temporary housing. It is unknown if the building was insured at the time of the fire.
The cause of the fire is incendiary (arson). If anyone has any information on this fire they are encouraged to contact authorities. A reward is available for information which leads to an arrest. This fire endangered the lives of those inside the structure and the responders.
The Ottumwa Police, Ottumwa Police Department Communications, ORMICS and Wapello Co. EMA assisted the Ottumwa Fire Department with this incident.
