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Duluth Fire provides update on Easter fire fatality

[Duluth, MN] The Duluth Fire Marshal’s Office continues to investigate the cause of the structure fire on Sunday, April 4. While the final cause of the fire cannot be determined until the autopsy report has been returned, the incident is being investigated as an accidental fire.

The eight-plex where yesterday’s fire took place located at 631 East 3rd Street was the second structure fire that has occurred at the location in less than eight months. Both fires also included a fire fatality. This coincidence is believed to be the first of its kind within the history of structure fires in Duluth.

“Working smoke detectors alerted the other residents to the fire and are responsible for getting them out safely,” Deputy Chief Jon Otis said.

After the August 11, 2020 fire, the Duluth Fire Marshal condemned the property for habitation. On September 21 of the same year, housing inspectors lifted that order for six of the eight units, and the landlord began renting to tenants again.  In January of 2021, the condemnation of the last two units was lifted.

The unit sustained minor damage in the April 4 fire, and therefore the building in its entirety will not be condemned. This morning Life Safety officials did condemn the unit that the fire took place in for habitation.

The Duluth Fire Department is continuing to withhold the deceased's name until the next of kin has been contacted. As soon as the next of kin has been notified, the Department will provide an update to the media and the public with that information.

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