On Sunday, January 26th, 2025, at approximately 1:41 P.M., the Webster County
Telecommunications Center received a call in reference to a residential fire at 211 N 12th St. in
Fort Dodge. The Fort Dodge Police Department along with the Fort Dodge Fire Department
responded to the scene.
When officers and fire fighters arrived on scene they located an active residential fire on
the second floor. Fort Dodge Fire was able to take control of the fire, preventing the fire from
spreading to the rest of the building. The residence was occupied at the time of the fire, but
there were no reported injuries. Upon further investigation into the cause of the fire, it
appeared to be suspicious in nature. Investigators were called to the scene and worked along
patrol processing the scene, speaking to witnesses, and gathering evidence.
Over the course of the last two days, investigators have continued to follow up on this
case and it was determined that the fire was set intentionally. As a result of the investigation
thus far, 34‐year‐old Fort Dodge resident Megan S. Freeman has been arrested on the following
charges;
 Arson in the 1st Degree (B Felony)
 Arson in the 3rd Degree (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
 Harassment in the 1st Degree (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
Ms. Freeman is currently being held in the Webster County Jail on a $29,000.00 cash
bond. As with all cases, Ms. Freeman is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of
law. The investigation continues by the Fort Dodge Fire and Police Departments and the Webster County Attorney Office.