State Fire Marshal’s Office investigating house fire in Austin termed “suspicious”

The Minnesota State Fire Marshal is investigating an early Sunday morning house fire that Austin Fire Chief Jim McCoy termed suspicious in nature.  

Chief McCoy reported that Austin firefighters responded to the fire at approximately 4:50 a.m. Sunday morning at 4004 20th Ave. NW. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered that the house was fully engulfed in flames and part of the roof had collapsed. 

Members of the Brownsdale and Hollandale Fire Departments provided mutual aid. The Austin Police Department and Mower County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the scene.

McCoy stated that the residence is being considered a total loss with an estimated damage value of $50,000.

Chief McCoy went on to state that the fire is being considered suspicious as the house was vacant and had no power.