Semi driver strikes Marion home, knocking it from foundation, setting it on fire

According to the Linn County Sheriff's Office, a structure fire at 1551 County Home Road in Marion was caused by a semi driver who lost control and struck the home with his vehicle.

The release states that today at 5:15 p.m. multiple departments including the Linn County Sheriffs, Marion Fire and Coggon Fire, among others, were called to 1551 County Home Road.

James Ward, 70 of Center Junction was reportedly traveling eastbound on County Home Road when he failed to maintain control of his vehicle, and traveled into the north ditch. Ward then continued driving in the ditch, at which time he traveled into the backyard of the house at 1551 County Home Road, striking the home, and knocking it off the foundation.

Just after striking the home, Ward's semi caught fire, ignighting the house.

According to the report, Ward was able to escape with minor injuries, and refused medical treatment. The owner of the property, Rodney Peyton, and the home's renter, Michelle Burke were both present at the time of the accident, but were able to escape without injury.

Ward has been cited for the accident and was released at the scene.