BREEZY POINT, Minn. - A privately owned condo building within the gates of Breezy Point Resort burned dramatically Wednesday, May 23, as firefighters from several area departments battled the blaze into the night.
An orange glow was visible miles away from the resort as flames shot high into the sky above, engulfing the Lakeside Loft building. About 100 spectators watched - gathered like an audience before Fourth of July fireworks, most chattering excitedly, some sipping beers - as the condo building became a shell, with just the skeletal structure remaining.
According to the police scanner, the fire was reported about 9:40 p.m. and was described as a "fully involved" structure fire. Dispatchers immediately called for mutual aid, and firefighters from Pequot Lakes, Nisswa, Crosslake and Mission fire departments were on scene along with law enforcement officials from the Crow Wing County Sheriff's Office and Breezy Point and Nisswa police departments. Paramedics from North Memorial Ambulance also attended the scene.
As spectators watched, an SUV parked in front of the building burst into flames as well, and soon thereafter, officials evacuated the area, citing open flowing gas lines near the site.
Bob Spizzo, owner of Breezy Point Resort, said the Lakeside Loft building destroyed by fire was not owned by the resort. His son, David Spizzo, said there were no known injuries, and the condo was quickly evacuated at the time of the fire. Although the cause was unknown, David Spizzo noted an electrical panel was suggested as a possible source for the fire, though he did not know for certain late Wednesday night.
