On Saturday around 5:30 pm, the Rock Island Fire Department responded to a large fire on the property, located on 5th Street and 37th Avenue. Multiple fire departments helped to extinguish and contain the fire, but the nearly 100-year old barn was destroyed.
One cow died during the fire and one escaped. Another 25 cattle were relocated safely. The missing cow was found two days later near the 100 block of 31st Avenue.
The city is still working to extinguish the rest of the smoldering hay. Officials say it will smolder for up to 10 days and residents may notice smoke in the area.
The Rock Island Fire Marshal determined the fire was deliberately set. Police are investigating.
