Sheriff: Faulty wiring is likely cause of Manchester fire

Published 3:13 pm Friday, February 5, 2016

Firefighters respond to a house Thursday at 113 McKinley St. in Manchester. — Sam Wilmes/Albert Lea Tribune

Firefighters respond to a house Thursday at 113 McKinley St. in Manchester. — Sam Wilmes/Albert Lea Tribune

A fire that caused minor damage at a home in Manchester Thursday afternoon was more than likely caused by faulty wiring, according to authorities.

The Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted an investigation into the fire at 113 McKinley St.

Four people were reportedly in the house when the fire began and safely exited the house.

Email newsletter signup

Smoke was reportedly visible when first responders arrived, and the fire was put out later that afternoon.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, damage to the house is believed to be fairly minor, and the fire was contained to the attic.

Manchester, Hartland, Clarks Grove and Freeborn fire departments responded to the scene.

The residence is owned by Michael Haukoos, 38, and at least one other person also lived there, the Sheriff’s Office stated.