Cause of Wednesday night fire in Hannibal remains under investigation

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The cause of a Wednesday night fire in Hannibal remains under investigation.

The Hannibal Fire Department was dispatched at 5:46 p.m. Wednesday to a structure fire at 510 Willow. Nine personnel responded initially, with four additional personnel later called in for support.

Upon arrival, crews found flames and smoke coming from the front of the structure. Bystanders reported that the residents might still be inside. Firefighters conducted a search and, after receiving additional information, determined that the home was unoccupied at the time of their arrival.

The fire was brought under control within approximately 15 minutes. Further investigation revealed that the residents had been home when the fire started but had left before the first responders arrived. A juvenile occupant sustained injuries and was transported to the hospital by personal vehicle before the arrival of Hannibal Fire Department.

The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office was called in to investigate. The Hannibal Police Department, Hannibal Building Inspector’s Office, Marion County Ambulance District and the American Red Cross.