Fire heavily damages Washington, Iowa home

CEDAR RAPIDS - A morning fire significantly damaged a home in Washington, just a few days before Christmas.

Firefighters were called to 625 E. 10th St. around 9:30 a.m. Thursday after a neighbor reported the fire. No one was home when the fire started, firefighters said.

“It's particularly bad,” said Washington Fire Safety Officer Ron Armstrong. “They're getting settled into the home for Christmas, now they're going to have to go to a motel and have their Christmas.”

The residence is owned by Stephen and Rachel Zabel, who live in the home with their two sons.

“If God throws you a curveball, you catch it and throw it back,” 13 year-old James Zabel said with a tear in his eye.

The cause remains under investigation, but firefighters believe it started in a corner bedroom. Heat from the fire was so intense it damaged siding on a neighboring house.

Armstrong said firefighters were able to save a number of Christmas presents from the flames, but said the items likely suffered significant smoke damage. Much of the family's property was destroyed in the blaze.

James Zabel said his family is very upset by the damage to their home and belongings.

“Christmas is going to be different this year,” he said. “It's been a tough month.”

The First Christian Church is accepting donations on behalf of the Zabel's. Items can be dropped off at the church, 301 W. 2nd St. in Washington, or interested donors can call Youth Pastor Darren Brown at 319-931-3680.