1 dead after Columbia Heights fire

The Columbia Heights Fire Department (CHFD) says a person has died after being found inside a building on fire.

According to Fire Chief Charlie Thompson, crews responded to 1202 Circle Terrace in Columbia Heights at 2:47 a.m. Friday for a call of a potential fire. When crews arrived, they found light smoke conditions and entered the building after initial reports suggested someone was inside. These reports were correct, as CHFD said they located a man during their search.

The fire department said they evacuated the man who was then taken to Hennepin County Medical Center, receiving CPR efforts while being transported. However, the male “succumbed to his injuries upon arrival”, according to Thompson.

At this time, the victim’s identity is not known, nor how he was injured or what started the fire. CHFD said they are conducting investigations and will release a press release in collaboration with law enforcement.