Wood Stove Suspected of Torching Pine Island Home, Injuring Homeowner

Pine Island, MN (KROC-AM News)- Officials suspect a wood burner is to blame for a fire that broke out at a Pine Island home Monday night. 

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A news release issued by the Pine Island Fire Department says crews responded to the blaze around 10:30 p.m. Firefighters would remain at the scene for the next four hours. 

The fire happened at a residence in the 600 block of 2nd St. Southwest in Pine Island. Arriving firefighters reported seeing the home fully engulfed by fire, with flames coming out of the front and back of the house. 

The homeowner and pets were outside of the burning structure when emergency responders arrived, the new release says. Fire crews had the flames knocked down within an hour of arriving, which saved a nearby garage, shed and vehicles. 

The preliminary investigation determined the fire started after the homeowner had been working with the wood burner outside of his home. The fire destroyed the interior of the house, however a monetary damage estimate is not available.

Officials say the homeowner suffered minor burn injuries and was treated by medics at the scene. No firefighter injuries were reported. 

The Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting with the fire investigation. 

The Zumbrota Police Department, Zumbrota Area Ambulance, Goodhue County Sheriff's Office, and Xcel Energy also responded to the scene. The American Red Cross is assisting the homeowner.

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