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Concerns over stability of Drake Hotel as crews work to extinguish fire
Crews are still working to extinguish the fire at the Francis Drake Hotel that started Christmas morning. Due to concerns over stability, the building will likely need to be torn down in the coming days.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The fire at the Francis Drake Hotel in Minneapolis that started Christmas Day was finally extinguished Thursday afternoon.
One of the main concerns now is with the structure. The walls are not structurally sound since the roof collapsed, so roads in the area remain blocked off. City leaders say part of the building is not safe and must be torn down.
Fire investigators have completed evidence gathering at the site and are still investigating the cause of the fire.
A fire broke out at the Francis Drake Hotel apartment building in downtown Minneapolis Wednesday morning. (FOX 9)
The Drake Hotel is a designated overflow shelter in Hennepin County for families experiencing homelessness. The fire left 240 people, including 100 children, with nowhere to go.
A resident of the hotel told FOX 9 many people stayed overnight at a church not far from the scene. The American Red Cross was there all night, providing food and cots. She said she believes the displaced residents are supposed to be getting set up with long-term housing Thursday.
If you want to help the victims of the Drake Hotel fire, the Minneapolis Foundation has set up the Minnesota Helps Fund to support the immediate and long-term needs of those impacted. To donate, text DRAKEFIRE to 243725 or visit their website.
The Red Cross is also accepting financial donations to help the fire victims. Donations can be made online, over the phone by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or mailed to the American Red Cross Minnesota Region at 1201 West River Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55454.