A call came in shortly after 3 p.m. for a fire behind 1616 12th Ave. S.W. When Fort Dodge Fire Rescue arrived, the blaze had engulfed the clutter filling the backyard.

After mounting a quick attack, the firefighters were able to prevent the fire from spreading to the house on the property. Crews were on scene for about two hours to ensure the fire was completely out.

The exact cause of the fire is unlikely to be determined, Capt. Steve Teske said. There were several sources of heat and fuel around the site, including a grill and a small pickup camper.

No injuries were reported.

-Messenger photo by Kelby Wingert
Fort Dodge Fire Rescue firefighter Matt Newton sprays the deck gun of Engine 4 at a fire in the backyard of 1616 12th Ave. S.W. on Saturday afternoon.

According to Fort Dodge Fire Chief Steve Hergenreter, this property had been a “chronic fire problem” for at least the last 10 years. He said the department has been called out “countless times” to the property for various fires.

Owners of the property have received multiple nuisance and building occupancy violations from the city. According to the Webster County Assessor, the property is owned by Karolyn Kinkner and Jessica Vollbrecht.