Rug Found At Fire Scene May Be Important Clue

WOODBURY, MN (WNN) – The Woodbury Public Safety Department is asking the public for information about a rug found at the abandoned house that burned Friday near the intersection of Afton Road and Tower Drive.  

“Woodbury detectives have information that two juveniles were seen biking with this rug near the 8000 block of Afton Road,” the department stated in a social media post. “If you have information regarding where this rug was removed from or whom it belongs to, email [email protected] or leave a message at 651-714-3780. Information regarding the origin of the rug may help detectives with the ongoing investigation of this fire.”

No one was injured. A witness described it as “an absolutely terrifying fire” and posted video on Facebook that shows a house engulfed in flames that appeared to be as high as nearby trees.

“It was such a sight to see,” one person commented on the social media site. Another person sent prayers to the first responders: “Hope everyone is safe.”

Woodbury Fire Marshall Kevin Lynch said in a statement: “Firefighters worked swiftly to bring the fire under control. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the property was confirmed to be vacant at the time of the incident.’

The house is in a secluded area next to the nature area by city hall and the public safety building. Lynch said the cause of the fire is still under investigation. 

“I can confirm this is Woodbury’s third structure fire in the past two weeks,” he said. “However, my investigations of the previous fires have determined that the incidents are not connected.”

Singer Jill Sobule died in a fire at a home in the 9200 block of Pinehurst Road last week. In April, a fire destroyed a duplex in the 7500 block of Afton Road. The causes of those fires have not been released.

“As always, we encourage our community members to report any unusual or suspicious behavior,” Lynch said.