![A fire was reported in a Woodbury senior complex in Woodbury in the 7000 block of Lake Rd. just after 4 a.m. according to Woodbury Fire Chief Todd Johnson. Heavy smoke filled the first floor. Fire was extinguished. Mutual aid from nearby fire departments helped with the fire. More than a dozen ambulances responded. Residents were evacuated from the building. ] JIM GEHRZ ï james.gehrz@startribune.com / Woodbury, MN / March 28, 2015 /4:45 AM](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/O6YNX5Y34PI2QF6OYXWKJ7AK4Y.jpg?&w=1080)
A fire at a Woodbury senior living complex last month that killed a 77-year-old resident and injured several others was caused by careless smoking.
Russell W. Johnson died when a fire broke out about 4:15 a.m. on March 27, at Woodbury Villa, part of a senior living campus near Woodbury High School. The fire prompted the evacuation of 71 residents to a nearby building.
Two women were hospitalized for smoke-related injuries that were not life-threatening, and a firefighter was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
The fire started in and was contained to the unit where Johnson was found.
Woodbury Villa is a 75-unit apartment building that offers assisted living services.
Smoking isn't allowed in the building.
NICOLE NORFLEET
