Beek's Pizza, a south Minneapolis neighborhood favorite, was destroyed in a three-alarm fire that broke out just before 6 p.m. Thursday.
Officials said heavy fire was showing near the rear of the building when crews arrived at 5340 Lyndale Avenue S.
The initial call came in at 5:51 p.m. At 6:07 p.m., a second alarm was called due to the possibility of fire spread, the hazards present on the property. The fire went to a third alarm at 6:47 p.m. as a precaution and for additional crews to serve as relief companies.
Shortly after 8 p.m., officials announced the structure -- which also houses Diamond Lake Rental -- is expected to be a total loss.
Beeks had occupied its 54th and Lyndale location since 1963. The business has a second location in St. Louis Park.
Three people were inside when the fire began, but they all escaped safely. One firefighter was taken to Hennepin County Medical Center for a minor injury sustained from a fall.
Officials remained on scene overnight. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
