Brooklyn Center duplex fire began shortly after dispute

Fire erupted in a Brooklyn Center duplex early Wednesday, and authorities say they suspect the blaze was set on purpose because people in the home were involved in some kind of dispute.

The fire started around 2:15 a.m. at the duplex in the 7200 block of West River Road, said Fire Chief Lee Gatlin.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming out of windows and doors, Gatlin added. From there, the entire upper level was engulfed, and flames were shooting out of the roof of the two-story structure. The fire was under control by about 6:30 a.m.

A total of six occupants in both residences of the duplex were removed, and there were no injuries, the chief said.

However, a dog died in the blaze, Gatlin said. Another dog from the duplex was found in good shape.

Authorities determined that a woman in the duplex was drunk, prompting her hospitalization, the chief said.

"Arson was suspected because of a dispute between occupants shortly before the fire," Gatlin said.

PAUL WALSH