According to a joint press release, the agencies responded to the reported blaze at 3 S. 4th Ave. at 1:10 p.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found white smoke showing from the center of the building complex.

MFD personnel quickly established operations in the former hospital emergency department parking lot by laddering the building. Firefighters stretched horizontal standpipe across the flat roof of the building so firefighters could enter a stairwell and access the seat of the fire and extinguish it.

The remainder of the fire floor, as well as the floors above and below, were searched for victims and fire extension. No victims were found, and the fire did not extend past the room of origin. Firefighters were at the scene for approximately three hours.

A preliminary investigation led to a determination that the fire was intentionally set. Law enforcement also identified a suspect, a 16-year-old male who was taken into custody on charges of second degree arson and first degree criminal mischief, both Class C felonies, as well as fifth degree theft and interference with official acts, both simple misdemeanors.

The suspect was transported to a juvenile detention facility. The incident remains under investigation, and anyone with relevant information about this crime is asked to contact the MPD at 641-754-5725 or 911. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling Marshall County Crime Stoppers at 641.753.1234 or via text by texting the word “marshall” followed by the tip to CRIMES (274637). Tips may also be submitted online at www.marshallcountycs.com.

The MFD and MPD were assisted at this scene by the Marshall County 911 Communications Center, the Marshalltown Street Department, UnityPoint Ambulance Service, and Alliant

Energy. UnityPoint Health Facilities Management assisted at the command post with technical expertise regarding the building.

The building is currently owned by CD Marshalltown LLC, a division of Covalt Development. When reached for comment, Owner Scott Covalt told the T-R he did not have much information to share at the present time but hoped to know more by Thursday. Less than a week ago, four Des Moines men were arrested for allegedly burglarizing the site.