Crime & Safety

Fire Ravages St. Louis Park Home

A man and his dog were able to escape the home with only minor injuries.

A fire badly damaged a St. Louis Park home late Monday morning, but a man and his dog were able to escape from the house without serious injuries.

Crews were called to 1428 Maryland Ave. S. at around 11:45 a.m. Firefighters were able to fight back the blaze, which was shooting out from a kitchen window, in about 10 minutes, keeping the fire largely contained to the one property. A neighboring house did sustain some damage to its siding.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, though it appears it started in the kitchen, as that room was most badly damaged. Fire chief Luke Stemmer said his initial estimate of the damage is at least $100,000, adding that the home could be a complete loss.

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The man who was inside the home at the time, identified by neighbor Andrew Barton as Shawn Dilley, rushed outside and warned others of the fire.

Barton said he was home with his son and grandson when his son said he heard a “pop.” Dilley then ran up to their door and reported the fire, Barton said.

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“He said, ‘Get out, my house is on fire,’” Barton added.

Dilley reportedly suffered minor burns and was treated and released on-site, officials said. His dog was also OK and went to stay with a nearby homeowner while crews tended to the fire.

Barton described Dilley as a “big brother” to his kids, adding that he knew neighbors would pull together for him.

“He kind of touches everyone,” Barton said. “We’ll take care of him.”

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