Van Wert house fire causes heavy damage; CERT collecting donations for displaced family

A home in Van Wert sustained heavy damage during a late Wednesday morning fire in the 600 block of North Race Street.

According to the Van Wert Independent, The Van Wert Fire Department was dispatched shortly after 10:40 a.m. and arrived to find a working fire with heavy involvement in a rear corner bedroom. Initial reports indicated there may have been two occupants inside the home.

Fire Chief Jon Jones said crews quickly established a water supply, advanced attack lines, and began fire suppression while also conducting a primary search. Additional alarms were sounded to bring in mutual aid from Middle Point and Ohio City for manpower and support. Vertical ventilation was also performed to improve interior conditions and help control the fire.

The fire was brought under control around 11:17 a.m. Crews remained on scene for overhaul and investigation, and to ensure the fire did not extend into concealed spaces. Jones said the cause remains under investigation.

Estimated property loss is about $65,000, with an additional $20,000 in content loss. No serious injuries were reported.

Ohio City and Middle Point fire departments assisted at the scene, along with Van Wert County CERT and the Van Wert Police Department.

Van Wert County CERT is now collecting support for the victims. After meeting with the family, CERT says clothing and monetary donations are needed. Donors are asked to include Case No. 7487 so contributions go to the correct family.

Requested clothing sizes
Adult female: 29 jeans, medium sweatpants, XL shirts, 8.5 footwear, XL coats
Adult female: small sweatpants, small shirts, small coats
Adult female: M/L sweatpants, M/L shirts, 9.5 footwear, large coats
Adult female: 11/12 jeans, medium sweatpants, L/XL shirts, 9.5 footwear, large coats
Adult male: 32/32 pants, large shirts, large coats

Where to donate
Clothing donations: Trinity Global Methodist Church, 220 S. Walnut St., Van Wert, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
Monetary donations: Van Wert County Foundation/CERT, 138 E. Main St., Van Wert. Please include Case No. 7487 in the memo.

Donations will be collected through Wednesday, January 28.