Arson suspected in Baxter home fire

BAXTER - Arson is suspected in a home fire Friday in Baxter.

The single-family home was an unoccupied residence at the time of the fire, which was reported about 5:56 a.m. Friday at 4670 Ashley Road in Baxter.

Brainerd Fire Chief Fred Underhill said the home is listed for sale and firefighters thought the fire was questionable from the outset but he didn't want to elaborate on details.

"It's suspicious in nature," Underhill said, noting the home appeared to have been entered and the fire set. From the exterior, Underhill said there is little visible damage but there is extensive damage to the interior.

The Minnesota state fire marshal's office determined the fire was set intentionally.

A 911 call initially alerted officials to the blaze. Underhill said a motorcycle rider who was driving by noticed smoke coming from the home's eaves and went to a neighbor's home to report the fire.

The Baxter Police Department, Brainerd Fire Department and the state fire marshal's office responded to the fire. A reward is offered for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to contact the arson hot line at (800) 723-2020.

RENEE RICHARDSON may be reached at renee.richardson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5852.