A large fire at the Helix Apartments St Louis Park left many residents displaced Friday evening after firefighters responded to smoke around 4:45 p.m. One person was sent to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and two firefighters were treated on scene for heat-related injuries.
The fire burned for hours before crews brought it under control. Firefighters stayed at the building to extinguish final hot spots, while about 90 apartment units were affected. The American Red Cross and the Salvation Army began helping displaced residents with shelter and immediate needs.
Helix Apartments in St Louis Park
Fire crews found a large blaze at the Helix Apartments after responding to the smoke report. About 20 fire departments provided mutual aid during the response, which grew into a large-scale effort as crews worked through the evening.
Ron Latz, the DFL-St. Louis Park senator, said his office will help those impacted and share further updates and ways to help displaced residents as soon as possible. His statement also thanked first responders on the scene.
"I’m thankful for the brave first responders who are on the scene right now responding to the fire at the Helix Apartments in St. Louis Park. I’m also thinking of all those who have been affected by this devastating fire. My office will assist those impacted in any way we can, and will share further updates and ways to help those who may be displaced as soon as possible." — Ron Latz
St Louis Park fire response
The fire may have started on a third-floor balcony, but the cause remains under investigation. A full damage assessment was not yet available, and officials had not said how many residents were displaced or when they might be able to return.
For residents, the immediate issue is finding shelter and getting basic needs covered while the building remains under review. The help now coming from the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army gives displaced tenants a first step while crews and investigators sort out what happened inside the building.
