Photo credit: Iowa County Sheriff's Office social media

Yesterday, at approximately 11:15 a.m. several Washington County agencies responded to a call regarding a building explosion and fire at 810 E. South Street in Marengo.

Personnel from Wellman Ambulance, Washington County Ambulance, and Washington County Emergency Management were requested to assist with the incident. Members of the Washington County Fire Department also responded, bringing with them fire-fighting foam. The foam is used to more effectively battle fires caused by burning fuels and other combustible liquids.

According to a press release from the City of Marengo, fire departments were still working to extinguish the blaze into the evening hours on Thursday. All personnel inside the building were accounted for, with five persons transported to the University of Iowa Hospital. An unknown number of individuals were transported by personal vehicles to Compass Memorial Hospital and the University of Iowa Hospital. Causes of the fire remain unknown.

KCII will have more information as it becomes official.