GRANVILLE, Iowa — A devastating house fire that erupted early Monday morning has claimed the lives of three teenagers and left a fourth in critical condition, shaking the small community of Granville and surrounding Sioux County to its core.
The blaze broke out around 5 a.m. on Sept. 1 at a residence on 430th Street, about two miles northwest of Granville. Firefighters arrived to find the home engulfed in heavy smoke. According to the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, four teenagers were rescued from the burning residence and rushed for emergency medical treatment.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Despite the swift efforts of first responders and hospital staff, three victims were later pronounced dead. Authorities identified them as Kolten Hofmeyer, 16; Bryleigh Koob, 16; and her brother, Ashton Koob, 17. A fourth victim, described only as a 16-year-old male, remains in critical condition at a burn unit in Minnesota, where doctors continue to fight for his recovery.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office, working alongside the Granville Fire Department. Officials have not yet released additional details about what may have sparked the tragedy.
Sioux County Sheriff Jamie Van Voorst urged the community to come together in solidarity, calling the loss “heavy, heartbreaking, and overwhelming.” In his statement, Van Voorst asked residents to “stop and pray with us for everyone affected by this” and to continue offering support in the coming weeks.
The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief across Sioux County, where classmates, neighbors, and friends are already planning vigils, prayer services, and fundraisers for the families. Community members described the victims as vibrant, compassionate teenagers whose lives were cut short far too soon. Hofmeyer was remembered for his friendly nature and active role in school life, while the Koob siblings were described as inseparable and admired for their kindness and loyalty.
As the investigation continues, the families are preparing for funerals and memorials while the community rallies around them in mourning. The Granville tragedy stands as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility—and the enduring strength found in unity, faith, and compassion during times of unthinkable loss.