ALEXANDRIA, Minn. – Investigators worked to learn what caused a massive fire that wiped out part of downtown Alexandria.
More than 100 firefighters battled the blaze Tuesday that destroyed RM Tattoo, Raapers Eatery & Ale, Charlie’s Bazaar and Little Darlings Children’s Boutique. About two dozen tenants who lived in apartments above the stores were evacuated safely.
City spokeswoman Sarah Stadtherr says firefighters used a drone with thermal imaging for the first time and it allowed them to locate hot spots and more effectively fight the fire.
Carlette Vernlund, who owns Charlie’s Bazaar, says she’ll be meeting with her insurance agent this week to determine how to proceed.
