Owensville Fire Protection District (OFPD) responded to a residential structure fire Saturday morning at approximately 2:04 a.m. in the 200 block of East Washington Avenue.

According to Fire Chief Jeff Arnold, the cause of the fire has been ruled undetermined by the Missouri State Fire Marshal.

Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire in a front bedroom that extended to the second floor of the residence. OFPD reports initiating an aggressive interior attack to bring the fire under control and prevent further expansion.

Assisting crews included Gasconade Central E-911, Owensville EMS, Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District, Belle Fire Protection District, Bland Fire Protection District, Gerald-Rosebud Fire Protection District and Hermann Volunteer Fire Department.

All occupants and pets were reported as “safely out of the residence.”

The American Red Cross was contacted to provide assistance to the residents.

On Aug. 16 at 10.07 p.m., the OFPD responded to a structure fire in the 800 block of East Pear. Upon arrival the crew discovered a 20 x 30 foot detached garage on fire. They worked quickly to bring the fire under control with the help of fire protection districts from Gerald, Belle, Bland and Beaufort-Leslie.

OFPD believes the fire to have been electrical in nature. No one was injured, but a they were “able to rescue a cat from the structure.”

On Friday, a benefit was held for the Zelch family to raise money for losses sustained by Clyde and Emma Zelch of Rosebud in a July 31 house fire.

Zelch reported that the 3 a.m.fire is believed to have started from a pilot light on a propane refrigerator. The residence did not have electricity.

“It’s humbling experience,” said Zelch. “I will spend the rest of my life trying to repay the community for all their help.”

The Zelch Family Fundraiser cost attendees $35 per person with children under five as free and children ages five to 12 for $15.

The event, held Aug. 28, at the White Mule Winery, was organized by The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation (TCMGF).

Dinner, music, a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle were the highlights of the event with private donations accepted as well.

A total of approximately $15,000 before expenses was raised. Donations are still being accepted. Checks, made out to TCMGF can be mailed to 330 W. Fitzgerald Ave., Gerald, Mo. 63037 with Zelch Family written in the memo.

Anyone wishing to join TCMGF as a volunteer or monthly donor can visit www.TCMGF.org.