Authorities: Elk River Fatal Fire Ruled Possible Arson

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Authorities say a fire that took the life of an Elk River man late last week is being investigated as a possible arson.

Firefighters were called at about 12:20 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 28, to a house fire on the 11000 block 187th Avenue NW in Elk River. When firefighters arrived, the home was fully engulfed.

A 47-year-old man, identified by authorities as Wayne Michael Ebinger, died in the fire. A preliminary investigation by the State Fire Marshal's Office indicates the blaze may have been intentionally set.

The Elk River Police Department is investigating along with the Elk River Fire Department, State Fire Marshal, Sherburne County Sheriff's Office and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The Elk River Fire Department was assisted at the scene by the Ramsey and Zimmerman Livonia Fire Departments.

A reward of up to $5,000 is available for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information should call the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office at (763) 765-3595.