At about 4:45 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, the Stearns County Emergency Communication Center received a call reporting a house fire at the address of 30765 Co. Rd. 41 in Farming Twp.
An off-duty firefighter passing by reported seeing smoke coming from the residence. He knocked on doors and tried to alert any potential occupants. A Stearns County Deputy arrived on scene and together they checked the house further for any occupants and were able to determine it was unoccupied.
The homeowners Brandon Cruz (38) and Heather Cruz (37) of Farming Twp. arrived home after being notified of the house fire. They advised firefighters and law enforcement that there were a couple of dogs inside. The dogs were later found deceased in the basement of the house.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the State Fire Marshal. The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Albany Fire Department, Avon Fire Department, St. Martin Fire Department, and Melrose Ambulance Service.