VIDEO: Fireworks Ignited Massive Apartment Blaze, Investigators Believe
Photo by Saint Paul Fire Department
Saint Paul Firefighters battled a massive two-alarm apartment fire just after 4:15 p.m. on Saturday afternoon on the 1300 block of Saint Paul Avenue.
Photo by Saint Paul Fire Department
Firefighters were first called to a report of a grass fire that had spread to some trees up against the apartment building.
The fire then spread from the trees and into the attic space above the third floor apartments. Investigators say firework debris was found near where the fire started.
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Firefighters attempted to extinguish the flames from the inside of the building, but one firefighter fighting the blaze said they were unable to get water from fire hydrants due to construction in the area where water lines are being replaced.
The fire spread rapidly, forcing firefighters to exit the building and fight from the outside.
Saint Paul Fire Deputy Chief Roy Mokosso said more than 60 firefighters fought the blaze for more than five hours. All 17 units inside the structure were condemned and said to be a total loss. 30 occupants of the building were displaced and being assisted by the American Red Cross.
VIDEO: The scene of the blaze Saturday
Firefighters say some residents were able to return to their units to retrieve valuables after the fire was extinguished. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported.
The fire department says the structure and content damage is estimated to be more than $2 million.
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