MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Fire Severely Damages Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Rosemount

ROSEMOUNT, MN (July 14, 2026) A Monday morning fire severely damaged an Ethiopian Orthodox church in Rosemount, partially collapsing the building’s roof and prompting an extended investigation by local authorities.

Firefighters were called to Minnesota Debre Bisrat St. Gabriel and St. Arsema Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church at 3285 144th Street West.

The fire was extinguished, but images from the scene showed extensive damage to the structure, including a large section of the roof that had collapsed.

Building Believed to Have Been Empty

Rosemount police said investigators believe the church was unoccupied when the fire began. No injuries had been publicly reported as of Monday afternoon.

Authorities had not announced a cause or said whether investigators believed the fire was accidental or deliberately set. That determination will require an examination of the damaged building and any available physical, video or witness evidence.

Until investigators release their findings, conclusions about the cause would be premature.

Roads Closed During Investigation

Barricades were placed between 145th Street West and Upper 143rd Street West, from Canada Avenue to Cantata Avenue.

Police warned that the closures could remain in effect for a prolonged period while investigators worked at the scene. People living within the barricaded area were allowed to reach their homes from Chili Avenue but were advised to have proof of residency available.

Drivers should follow posted detours and avoid the immediate area until local authorities confirm that the roads have reopened.

Damage Extends Beyond the Building

For an immigrant faith community, a church can serve as far more than a place for weekly worship. Congregations frequently use such spaces for cultural celebrations, family gatherings, youth activities, mutual assistance and the preservation of language and tradition.

The fire therefore represents not only damage to a building but a potentially significant disruption for the families who gather there.

The full extent of the damage, the congregation’s immediate plans and whether services will be temporarily relocated had not yet been announced.

Community members should rely on information released directly by the church or local authorities before contributing to any fundraising campaign connected to the fire. Verified assistance information can help ensure support reaches the congregation.

Investigation Continues

Fire investigations can take time, especially when structural instability limits access to the interior. A partially collapsed roof may complicate efforts to identify where and how the fire started.

Authorities are expected to provide additional information after investigators can safely examine the building.

Anyone with photographs, video or information about activity near the church before the fire should contact Rosemount authorities rather than posting unverified claims online.

MinneapoliMedia will continue monitoring the investigation and any verified requests for assistance from the congregation.

Source: Rosemount church-fire report.

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