A neighbor reported a fire at 2:22 a.m. Monday morning at 5995 Timber Trail SE in Prior Lake. The building is home to a mosque and school. The Prior Lake Fire Department arrived minutes later, and firefighters could see flames burning through the roof.

Firefighters worked on the exterior and interior of the building; however, due to the extent of the blaze crews were forced back outside. A portion of the roof subsequently collapsed. The building was searched upon initial arrival and there was nobody in the building. There were no injuries to the public or firefighters. 

The Prior Lake Fire Department was assisted by the fire departments from Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, Savage, Shakopee, Jordan, Elko New Market, and Lakeville.

"Our hearts break standing outside not only this building, but this parking lot is the site of an annual gathering where the mosque invites all of the first responders from the community and city leaders," said Prior Lake Mayor Kirt Briggs as he stood alongside other community leaders outside of the building Monday afternoon. "And our heart is broken." 

The cause of the fire is under investigation. As the structure is a religious institution a full investigation will be completed by the State Fire Marshall and ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives).