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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.
