Cedar Rapids Apartment Fire Claims One Life

[UPDATE] The victim has been identified as 61-year-old Toni Kay Cooley. According to a press release, fire investigators have determined that the fire originated near a couch inside the victim’s condominium unit. It was determined to be unintentional and likely the result of carelessly discarded smoking materials. The fire was concentrated in the living room area but the rest of the unit had significant smoke damage.

[ORIGINAL STORY] An apartment fire this afternoon has claimed the life of one.

KCRG-TV9 reports that firefighters were called to a condominium complex at 5145 Johnson Ave SW in Cedar Rapids just after 3 p.m. this afternoon. When firefighters arrived to the 2-story, 4-unit building no flames were visible from the outside. It wasn't until firefighters entered one of the units that they encountered heavy smoke. They then located one person inside the doorway of the apartment. That person was pronounced dead at the scene and removed from the unit.

Investigators have confirmed the death and no other injuries have been reported. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, as the family members must be properly notified first.

We will update the story as more information is released. You can stay up to date with the latest in local and music news on the app! Download it for free HERE.