By Bruce Karnick

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Hastings Fire and Police Departments were called to Jaycee Park Early Saturday morning for what appeared to be a routine dumpster fire. According to a release from the City of Hastings, the fire had spread to the wooden enclosure and had also engulfed the portable toilet in the enclosure. The fire and initial investigation cause the Lock and Dam Road, as well as the walking trail, to be closed until mid-Saturday morning.

HFD began to get the fire under control when a body was discovered. The victim was found dead at the scene. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) was called in to conduct the investigation along with HPD, the State Fire Marshal, and the Hennepin County Medical Examiner.

Monday morning, Deputy Chief David Wilske did confirm the details of the release but due the investigation being in the early stages, he could not discuss any further details.

On a condition of anonymity, a friend of the family of the victim spoke to the Journal. They reported the victim is male but would not give a name at this time. See BODY FOUND Page 3

This is all that stands at the scene of a fire from early Saturday morning. Hastings Fire Department and Police were called to the boat lauch at Jaycee Park for a fire. As HFD worked to get the fire under control, a body was discovered. Photo by Bruce Karnick Body Found

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The family believes that the investigation will reveal that foul play will be discovered.

Deputy Wilske did want to remind folks, if you have any information that will assist in the investigation, call the Police Investigation line at 651-480-2300, you can also text an anonymous tip to 847411 or search ‘Tip 411 Hastings MN” and fill out the form online.