Fire Department Responds to Building in Unincorporated Johnson County

The North Liberty Fire Department was dispatched to the 3000 block of Forest Gate Circle, in  Johnson County between Coralville and North Liberty, at 6:57 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, for a report of smoke coming from the roof of a residence. As the initial North Liberty fire unit arrived, brown smoke could be seen coming from the ridge vents and gable vents of the building.

Crews entered and found fire in the attic space. The fire was knocked down quickly and extensive overhaul operations took place inside the building until all hidden fire was uncovered. All occupants were out of the building at the time of the fire.

Firefighters from Iowa City, Coralville and Solon assisted in the effort, as did the Johnson County Ambulance Service, and the Johnson County Emergency Communications Center. Crews were on the scene for 2.5 hours. The likely cause of the fire is a lightning strike with the incident still under investigation.  A loss estimate is currently unavailable.