Multiple emergency crews responded to a house fire in Flagler yesterday afternoon at 1371 169th Ave.

Neighbors called 911 after they spotted smoke rising from the house, which soon turned to visible flames. The residents were asleep inside the house and were able to escape. Knoxville Township Rural Fire, Knoxville Fire and Rescue, Pella Fire, Pella Rural Fire, the Marion County Sheriff’s Department, and Mid-American Energy were all on scene. Significant damage was caused to the interior and exterior of the home, which may be a total loss. The cause of the fire is unknown, and no injuries were reported. Knoxville Township Rural Fire Chief Kenny Thompson tells KNIA/KRLS News they were able to knock down the flames fairly quickly, and he appreciates the quick response from not only his own firefighters but those of neighboring departments. County land records show the home is owned by Robert Lahvic.