Arson blamed in fire that engulfed WWII buildings in Arden Hills, Fire Department says

Authorities will allow the blaze to “burn itself out” over the next few days.

The Minnesota Star Tribune
May 11, 2025 at 3:20PM
Two structures south of County Road I and Fairview Avenue became engulfed in flames Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Lake Johanna Fire)

Arson was blamed for a blaze still burning over the weekend in Arden Hills, the Lake Johanna Fire Department said on social media.

The fire began Saturday and engulfed two buildings south of County Road I and Fairview Avenue, sending plumes of black smoke into the sky.

Authorities were allowing the blaze to “burn itself out” over the next few days but advised residents to call 911 if the flames spread beyond the structures.

The buildings were part of the sprawling Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant built in the 1940s. They were made of creosote timbers and used to store ammunition during World War II.

“This will continue to smolder, and we will monitor the situation,” the Fire Department said on Facebook.

It said smoke and possibly flames will continue to be visible.

about the writer

about the writer

Eva Herscowitz

Reporter

Eva Herscowitz covers Dakota and Scott counties for the Star Tribune.

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