On September 26, 2018 at 8:12 p.m. the Epworth Fire Department was paged by Dubuque County Dispatch to respond for a reported structure fire at 9578 Royal Wood Drive in rural Peosta. Upon arrival of the first engine at 8:16 p.m. firefighters found a garage fully involved with fire and heavy smoke extending into the residence. The occupants were alerted to the fire by smoke detectors and when they opened the garage door to investigate, they found fire in the garage area. All occupants were able to escape. Mutual aid assistance was provided by the Centralia/Peosta Fire Department, Key West Fire Department and the Asbury Fire Department tankers. The Farley Fire Department also responded with the Dubuque County Fire Association Breathing Air Trailer. Firefighters remained on the scene for over three hours checking for hot spots. The garage is considered a total loss and there is extensive smoke and water damage to the house. Damage is estimated $150,000. The Epworth Fire Department was also assisted at the scene by the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, Peosta Police Department, Black Hills Energy and Maquoketa Valley REC. The fire originated in the garage area is considered accidental.