Granville, Iowa – Sioux County is mourning the loss of three young lives after a devastating house fire broke out early Monday morning, September 1, at a residence on 430th Street, about 2.5 miles northwest of Granville.

The fire was reported around 5 a.m., prompting the Granville Fire Department and multiple neighboring agencies to respond. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke and soon discovered four people inside the home in critical condition. All four were transported by ambulance to Orange City Area Health.

Authorities say 16-year-old Kolten John Hofmeyer of Alton died shortly after arrival at the Orange City hospital. The three other victims were transferred to specialized burn units. Despite extensive medical efforts, 16-year-old Bryleigh Beth Koob and her brother, 17-year-old Ashton Lee Koob, both of Granville, succumbed to their injuries at the Sanford USD Medical Center and Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

A fourth victim, an unidentified 16-year-old, remains in critical condition at a Minnesota hospital.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Community Grieves
Sioux County Sheriff Jamie Van Voorst called the tragedy “heavy, heartbreaking, and overwhelming,” urging the community to rally together in prayer and support.

“We are created for community—for relationships that strengthen and sustain us,” Van Voorst said. “In this sad tragedy, there are several families involved and a large community affected. Please stop and pray with us for everyone impacted.”

The MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District confirmed the victims were all students. In a statement, school officials said:

“Our school community is heartbroken by the tragedy that took place. We lost three of our students in a house fire early Monday morning. A fourth student suffered serious injuries and is in the hospital receiving medical attention. This is a devastating time for our students, families, staff, and community.”

Counselors, clergy, and support staff will be available at the high school and throughout the district to help students and staff process the loss.

Remembering Bryleigh and Ashton Koob
Funeral arrangements for Bryleigh and Ashton Koob have been set for Saturday, September 6, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Granville, with Rev. Fr. Daniel Greving officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, beginning at 3:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s, including a rosary at 3:00 and a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. The Oolman Funeral Home of Orange City is in charge of arrangements. Memorials will be directed to the Koob family.

Response Efforts
The fire response involved the Granville Fire Department, Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, Hospers Fire Department, and ambulance services from Alton, Orange City, Granville, Hospers, Paullina, and Sheldon.

As the investigation continues, Sioux County remains united in grief. Vigils and memorial gatherings are expected in the coming days as the community remembers the three teens and prays for the recovery of the fourth victim.