REAL DUBUQUE NEWS (RDN)
Update: Lit candle caused Saturday fire at Dubuque apartment building, investigators say
LOCAL NEWS WIRE • November 09, 2026
Dubuque Fire investigators say a lit candle that melted down started the blaze at 280 West 17th St. after the resident fell asleep; three people were hurt and residents of 20 units were displaced.
KEY FACTS & RECORD HIGHLIGHTS
- Cause determined: a lit candle melted down and sparked the blaze after the resident fell asleep
- Fire reported around 6:15 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at 280 West 17th St., in a first-floor apartment
- Two residents taken to the hospital for treatment; a Dubuque firefighter suffered minor injuries
- Firefighters removed two people using ladders and assisted numerous others out of the building
- Crews rescued several dogs and cats from the building
- Damage estimated at $580,000
- Residents of 20 units across two sections of the apartment complex displaced
- American Red Cross providing sheltering assistance; some residents assisted by family or friends
REAL DUBUQUE NEWS (RDN) - Dubuque Fire investigators have determined the cause of the fire that tore through a downtown apartment building Saturday evening: a lit candle that melted down and sparked the blaze after the resident of the apartment had fallen asleep, Radio Dubuque reports. Around 6:15 Saturday night, Dubuque firefighters were called to 280 West 17th St. When crews arrived, they found fire and heavy smoke coming from an apartment on the first floor. Firefighters removed two people using ladders and assisted numerous others out of the building. Two residents were taken to the hospital for treatment and a Dubuque firefighter suffered minor injuries. Crews also rescued several dogs and cats. Damage is estimated at $580,000. Residents of 20 units across two sections of the apartment complex were displaced. The American Red Cross is providing sheltering assistance, while some are being assisted by family or friends.