Story originally printed in the La Crosse Tribune or online at www.lacrossetribune.com

Published - Thursday, August 07, 2008

Eight people injured in New Brighton van fire

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Eight people were hospitalized for smoke inhalation after a van carrying handicapped passengers caught fire in New Brighton.

Police officers and bystanders rescued the passengers minutes before the vehicle was engulfed in flames.

Emergency crews responded to the scene at 2:18 p.m. after the van caught fire at the intersection of Palmer Drive and Silver Lake Road just north of Interstate 694.

At least five passengers were taken to Unity and Mercy hospitals for smoke inhalation. Two police officers also were taken to Unity, treated for smoke inhalation and released. Another person, possibly a bystander, was treated as well.

An Allina Hospitals and Clinics spokesman said all of the injuries were minor.

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