WAPELLA — At 3:41 p.m. on Tuesday, Wapella Fire Department responded to a a 1st alarm house fire in the 400 block of North Chestnut Street.

On arrival, heavy fire and smoke were coming from the residence, Wapella Fire Department reported.

Personnel determined there was no one in the residence. A 2nd alarm was requested for more manpower, and water was brought to the scene.  The Red Cross also was asked to respond.  There were no injuries reported.

A column of black smoke from the fire was visible from at least a distance of five miles.

“The fire appears to be accidental in nature,” according to Wapella Fire Department. “We will be assisted by the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal with the investigation.”

A neighbor who called the fire into 911 dispatch reported there was a downed power line in the area.  Sheriff’s deputies were warning people in the vicinity about the power line.

In addition to Wapella, fire departments from Clinton, Heyworth, Kenney and Waynesville also responded, as well as DeWitt County and Heyworth EMS units.

The home was formerly owned by the late George Westbrook but had recently sold, according to a Wapella resident.

• Scroll down to see a second photo.