Amazon Driver Discovers Home Is on Fire During Delivery, Spots Car in Driveway and Panics (Exclusive)

Ciara Aschan, 27, was completing her delivery route on November 10 in Des Moines, Iowa, when she spotted smoke and flames rising from the back of a house. She immediately called 911 and checked to make sure no one was inside. Thanks to her quick reaction, firefighters were able to contain the fire to the upper floor.

The Amazon delivery driver from Johnston, Iowa, had been searching for the correct address in the 6900 block of Southwest 15th Street when something unusual caught her eye. While squinting to read house numbers, she noticed smoke drifting from a nearby home and then realized flames were visible as well.

Aschan pulled over, switched on her hazard lights and ran to the front door after alerting emergency services. Seeing a car in the driveway, she feared someone might be trapped inside. She knocked loudly and shouted, but no one responded. She then hurried to a back entrance, opened an unlocked door and called out again, only to find the house appeared empty.

While waiting for first responders who arrived in about six minutes she quickly delivered a package to a neighbor and planned to warn them in case the fire spread. Fire officials later confirmed the house was unoccupied at the time.

According to the Des Moines Fire Department, Aschans timely 911 call allowed crews to act fast, preventing the blaze from destroying the entire house. Firefighter Mike Morgan noted that the damage was largely contained to the second floor and credited Aschan for helping save the structure and potentially a life.

In a public statement, the department confirmed that smoke and flames had been visible from the upper rear of the home and thanked the Amazon driver for providing detailed information that helped dispatchers send the right response teams quickly. Officials also stated that the fire was accidental and showed no signs of foul play.

Aschan later received a message from a woman explaining that her mother and stepfather owned the home and were renovating it for her and her three daughters. She thanked Aschan for helping prevent a far worse outcome.

Amazon also issued a statement praising Aschan, calling her actions thoughtful and noting that her fast response reduced the extent of the damage. The company expressed gratitude to her and all drivers who go above and beyond for their communities.

Aschan says she feels proud of how she reacted and relieved the home was saved. Not all superheroes wear capes, she said. Some wear Amazon vests.