Juvenile Charged with Arson in Peosta Dollar General Fire

Charges have officially been filed against a juvenile in a December 3rd fire that took place at the Dollar General in Peosta. The juvenile from Peosta, was charged with 1st Degree Arson and 1st degree Criminal Mischief. Due to the offender being a juvenile, the name of the person involved will not be disclosed. The juvenile is awaiting the initial court appearance.

Original story published on December 4, 2023

According to a report form Peosta Chief of Police Mike Comer, on December 3rd, a fire broke out in the northeast corner of the Dollar General located at 8436 NICC Drive in Peosta. Quick action by employees and the responding officer from the Peosta Police Department swiftly extinguished the flames. Despite the immediate response, the incident is being treated as suspicious.

The Iowa Fire Marshal’s Division, in collaboration with the Peosta Police Department, has launched an investigation to determine the cause. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, though the extent of the damage remains unknown pending the ongoing inquiry. Authorities, led by Chief Mike Comer, are working diligently to unravel the circumstances behind this unsettling event.

As always, in the event of a fire, it's crucial to prioritize personal safety. Here are the essential steps you should take:

• Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and think clearly. Panic can impede your ability to make sound decisions.
• Alert Others: Immediately alert others in the vicinity by yelling or activating a fire alarm if possible.
• Evacuate Quickly: Leave the building as quickly and safely as possible. Do not use elevators; use stairwells instead.
• Crawl if Necessary: If there's smoke, stay close to the ground as smoke rises. Crawl to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.
• Feel Doors Before Opening: Before opening a door, use the back of your hand to feel if it's warm. If it is, do not open it; fire may be on the other side.
• Use Exit Routes: Follow designated exit routes and never re-enter a burning building.
• Call for Help: Call emergency services (911 or your local emergency number) once you are in a safe location.
• Provide Information: When speaking to emergency services, provide clear and concise information about the situation, your location, and any potential hazards.
• Assist Others: If it's safe to do so, assist others, especially those who may need help, such as children, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities.

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Personal safety is always the top priority, followed by the instructions of emergency personnel and responders. More details will be released as the investigation continues over this possible arson at Dollar General in Peosta.