FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2025
Contact for fire operations: Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Laskowske at 507-377-4311
Contact for fire investigation during business hours: Albert Lea Fire Rescue at 507-377-4341

Structure fire at Albert Lea house

Albert Lea Fire Rescue responded to 809 Clark St. W. Wednesday, April 2, at 7 a.m. for a reported house fire. Employees of Jim and Dude’s noticed smoke coming from the building and called 911. Fire crews arrived on scene and found smoke coming from the house on all three levels. One person was in the house at the time of the fire and that person was exiting upon Fire Rescue’s arrival.

The person had started a camp-style fire in a tote on the main level to stay warm.  The fire burned through the tote and floor, then dropped into the basement where it started other materials in the area on fire.  The fire extended into an outside wall and worked its way up to the second floor and attic space.

Fire crews worked on the scene for about two hours checking for fire extension. There were no injuries.

Albert Lea Fire Rescue would like to remind residents that starting a wood or other type fire in a house can be deadly. Not only can people lose control like in this situation, but the fire produces dangerous gases.

The Albert Lea Police Department and Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service assisted Fire Rescue on the scene.

#

The mission of Albert Lea Fire Rescue is to provide professional proactive responsive assistance to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations.