Chickens/Puppies Die in Stearns County Barn Fire

Authorities believe a heating lamp inside a barn may be the cause of a fire in Avon that killed chickens and several puppies late Wednesday morning.

The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office says at just after 11:30 they took a call saying there was black smoke in the area of the 36000 block of 160th Avenue. The property is owned by 64-year-old Jerome Eichers.

When crews arrived, the fire was put out, but the barn and its contents are believed to be a total loss.

Inside were chickens, goats, and several dogs.

Authorities say it appears all of the goats were able to get out, but the chickens and several young puppies did not survive.