More information sought on potential witness to Iowa City fire

Iowa City police are now seeking anyone who may have information regarding a person leaving 421 South Dodge St. with a dog prior to a fire being reported at the location Jan. 29.

Investigators have learned that someone took a dog out of the building prior to the fire being reported , police said.

Days after the fire, police released a computer generated image of a potential witness that would have been around College Green Park and/or 421 South Dodge Street between 10:30 and 11:15 p.m. Jan. 29. The fire was reported at 10:54 p.m.

The witness is described as an older white man, between 5 feet 10 inches and 6 feet tall, with a beard and long hair and wearing a dark-colored coat and pants. Iowa City Police Sgt. Denise Brotherton said police believe the witness is a transient man who may not be from around here.

The fire severely damaged the apartment and left several people displaced in a neighborhood that is primarily comprised of University of Iowa students. All residents of the apartment complex were able to escape uninjured from the fire. When crews arrived on the scene they found heavy smoke coming from the two-story, six-unit building. The fire was under control in about 45 minutes.

Iowa City Area CrimeStoppers has guaranteed $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for this crime. Anyone with information about the crime is urged to contact CrimeStoppers at 358-8477.