Victoria fire: 3 homes damaged, 1 person pronounced dead

article Firefighters on the scene of a house fire in Victoria, Minnesota. (FOX 9) The Brief Firefighters responded to a deck fire at the back of a home in Victoria's Laketown neighborhood early Tuesday.The fire spread to two neighboring homes. Two homes sustained significant damage, including one believed to be a total loss, while a third home sustained damage to its siding.In an update on Tuesday evening officials clarified than an unaccounted person has been declared dead. VICTORIA, Minn. (FOX 9) - A deck fire in a Victoria neighborhood damaged three homes, prompted the evacuation of 32 townhomes and left one person dead on Tuesday. House fire in Victoria  What we know: Firefighters responded to a deck fire at the back of a home around 6:30 a.m. on Carriage Drive near the intersection of Red Fox Drive, located in Victoria’s Laketown neighborhood. Officials said the fire spread to two neighboring homes. Two homes sustained significant damage, including one believed to be a total loss, while a third home sustained damage to its siding.  The City of Victoria asked the public to keep a safe distance and leave nearby roads clear for emergency vehicles. Red Fox Drive was also closed during the response.  As a precaution, residents from 32 townhome units were evacuated but have since been allowed to return.   FOX 9 crews at the scene observed extensive damage to the home, with much of the roof and exterior walls destroyed, leaving behind charred framing and piles of debris.  Firefighters remained at the scene as of 10 a.m. to monitor for hot spots, with smoke still rising from the damaged structure. What they're saying: "Today has been a devastating day for our community. Losing a neighbor in such a tragic way is heartbreaking, and words cannot fully express the sadness we feel for their family and loved ones," said City of Victoria Mayor Debra McMillan in a statement Tuesday evening. "Even in the midst of that grief, I don’t want us to lose sight of the helpers. Our helpers showed up today through our firefighters, law enforcement officers, city staff, and neighbors who came together to help others through one of their hardest days. We are deeply grateful to everyone who answered the call and offered care and support." Image 1 of 3 ▼ Firefighters on the scene of a house fire in Victoria, Minnesota. From: FOX 9 What we don't know: The Victoria Fire Department is working with the Minnesota State Fire Marshal to determine the cause of the fire and will continue to assist with response efforts.  Victoria Elementary School impacted Dig deeper: The response to the house fire also impacted morning drop-off at nearby Victoria Elementary School. Eastern Carver County Schools said Red Fox Drive off Highway 11/Victoria Drive was closed Tuesday morning, even after the fire had been extinguished. The Source: This story uses information from City of Victoria, Eastern County Schools and FOX 9 crews at the scene.  FireVictoria