Two children died and their mother was critically injured after a fire broke out in a Mankato apartment early Monday morning.
Mankato Public Safety said crews were dispatched around 2 a.m. to 233 1/2 Bradley Street on a report of a residential structure fire with flames showing from the upstairs unit of the duplex.
Five people were inside the top apartment when the fire started. An adult male and one child escaped unharmed, authorities said.
An adult female was flown by helicopter to Hennepin County Medical Center for treatment of her injuries. Two children died at the scene, according to officials. Their names have not yet been released while family members are being notified.
Director of Public Safety Jeremy Clifton called the incident “a heartbreaking tragedy, especially at the start of the new school year,” and said the department is working to determine the cause of the blaze, while also providing support to those impacted.
The residents of the lower apartment were able to get out safely. Early indications suggest the fire was not intentionally set, though the exact cause has not yet been determined. The Minnesota State Fire Marshal is assisting in the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved.
