Shakopee Townhouse Fire Ruled Accidental

A child playing with a lighter started the , according to Shakopee Fire Department officials. 

The fire in the Riverside Grove neighborhood near was started by an 8-year-old who was living in the home, Shakopee Fire Marshal Tom Pitschneider said Tuesday. He said the child was playing with a stick-type lighter and ignited various combustible materials between a desk and sofa in the main floor of the home. 

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The damage to the homes is estimated to exceed $350,000. The residents of the most heavily damaged units may be displaced for up to six months. 

"It is very important to keep matches and lighters out of the reach of young children," Pitschneider said.

Firefighters from eight cities and communities were called to fight the blaze at 1762 Riverside Drive. One resident was treated for smoke inhalation and a Bloomington firefighter who suffered a knee injury was transported by ambulance for treatment.

Two of the homes in the eight-unit complex were damaged significantly while two others have minor smoke damage, according to Pitschneider.

If you have concerns about a child who has played with fire, contact the Minnesota Youth Firesetting Helpline at 1-800-500-8897.