Resident at home when early morning blaze began
By Holly Neumann
An early morning fire Thursday, Oct. 20, claimed the home of Kent Casey at N7809 West River Road in Manawa.
“First and foremost, I would like to thank all the departments that were here,” said Casey. “They tried to get out as much memorabilia as they could and I truly appreciate that.”
Casey was getting ready for work when he noticed the fire.
“It was about 4:45 a.m. and I was brushing my teeth when I heard a crackling noise.” he said. “At first I did not think anything of it, but it got louder, so I went outside to see what it was and the whole roof was on fire. When you see that, you are ready to cry.”
According to Manawa Fire Chief Josh Smith, the call came in at 4:54 a.m.
“Upon arrival, fire had vented through the roof of the house,” said Smith. “Part of the structure, with much of the main roof line already having collapsed in.”
While part of the structure is still standing, it is not livable.
Casey built the home in 2007.
“When they brought in an excavator to knock down area around the chimney, I shed a few tears,” he said. “I just thank God, that I am OK.”
While the cause is still under investigation, it may have started around the chimney area.
The Manawa Rural Fire Department (MRFD) was assisted by Clintonville, Scandinavia, Iola, Ogdensburg, Weyauwega, Marion, Bear Creek, Manawa Ambulance and First Responders, Alliant Energy, Casey Excavating, Waupaca County Sheriff’s Department and Dispatch, Manawa Public Works Department, and Kwik Trip New London.
No injuries were reported.