Damage is being assessed after flames swept through a factory in Marshalltown. The fire was reported last night around 7 o’clock at Handy Industries. Smoke and flames were coming from the upper two stories of the five-story building, which was built more than 100 years ago.
The fire is thought to have started on the fourth floor. The roof was lost after the fire reached the fifth floor. Authorities say there were few access points to the building for firefighters to use, and the wooden beams, ceilings and floors allowed the flames to spread quickly.
One firefighter was overcome by heat and taken to the hospital. Damage is estimated over $200,000. Handy Industries manufactures tailgates for trucks and various types of shop equipment.