Wind-Driven Fire Damages Duplex, Neighboring Homes

ST. PAUL (WCCO) -- The wind was partially to blame in a fire that spread across several homes in St. Paul.

Firefighters were called by a neighbor to the fire at 4:29 a.m. Sunday at a vacant duplex at 1145 Edgerton St.

Upon arrival, fire crews found the entire second floor of the duplex engulfed in flames, which were spreading to the first floor and attic. The duplex was empty as it is currently condemned.

The flames were also being blown by the wind to both homes next door, which were only a few feet apart.

Firefighters worked to protect the neighboring homes and attacked the fire from the outside. When the fire was extinguished, the roof collapsed into the second floor of the home. The value of the duplex is $139,500. Officials say the home is a complete loss.

Neighbors to the north were able to return to their homes. Twelve people living in a duplex to the south of the property are staying with friends and relatives. Electricity was cut off to the home after the fire.

Eight fire crews responded from five stations to the scene. No one was injured.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.