Otter Tail County (trfnews.i234.me) — A 73-year-old man died in a fire west of Wadena on Thursday.
The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office said David Hanes, 73, was found inside the home.
Deputies were notified at about 7:40 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026.
A caller reported a structure fire at a rural residence in Compton Township.
The home sits west of the Wadena city limits, according to the sheriff’s office.
What happened
First responders arrived and saw heavy fire at the residence.
An unresponsive man was located inside the structure.
Fire crews and medics started life-saving care at the scene.
Hanes was then transported to Astera Health for emergency treatment.
He later died at the hospital, officials said.
Investigators also located the family’s dog dead inside the building.
The residence was declared a total loss.
Who responded
Multiple agencies and departments were sent to the scene.
Wadena, Bluffton, Deer Creek, and Henning fire departments assisted with the response.
Henning Ambulance also provided medical support.
The Minnesota State Fire Marshal responded to help with the investigation.
What investigators are looking at
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Officials said the fire is believed to be non-suspicious at this time.
The case is being worked by the Fire Marshal and the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators will examine the scene for the fire’s cause and point of origin.
They will also review witness reports and physical evidence.
No further details were released about how the fire started.
The sheriff’s office did not release the address or the names of other occupants.
Fire safety reminders
Officials often urge residents to test smoke alarms each month.
Replace alarm batteries when needed, or use ten-year sealed alarms.
Make a simple home escape plan and practice it with family members.
Keep exits clear and know two ways out of each room.
If you see smoke or fire, leave fast and call 911 from outside.
More safety tips are available through the State Fire Marshal website.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.