Man Allegedly Sets Fatal Minneapolis House Fire Resulting in One Death
Minneapolis Man Charged with Murder and Arson in Fatal House Fire
Details of the Minneapolis Tragedy
Charges have been filed against a 41-year-old Minneapolis man, Andrew John Nietz, in connection with a fatal fire that erupted last week. Nietz faces one count of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree arson for the fire that claimed one life and displaced three others.
Timeline of the Events
The incident unfolded on September 24, when fire crews responded to an emergency at a residence on the 900 block of 22nd Avenue Northeast before 11:20 p.m. Upon arrival, they found one man deceased within the multi-unit building.
Witness Accounts and Historical Conflict
According to court documents, Minneapolis police received statements from building residents who spotted Nietz at the victim’s home on the night of the fire. Witnesses noted Nietz had previously issued threats to the victim, including intentions to burn down the house.
One individual reported seeing Nietz at the victim’s unit around 8:30 p.m. Furthermore, it was shared that interactions between Nietz and the victim often escalated into altercations when they drank together.
- Smoke and flames were seen emerging from the unit.
- The victim’s vehicle, usually parked outside, was missing post-fire.
Investigators Connect the Dots
The victim’s mother, who owns the building, provided insight into the tumultuous relationship between Nietz and her son, who were childhood friends. She had previously rented a room to Nietz but evicted him due to drug-related issues.
The victim’s car was located the following morning in Minneapolis, driven by Nietz during a traffic stop. Phone location data pegged Nietz at the victim’s home from 8:06 p.m. until the fire began.
Nietz’s Criminal History and Legal Proceedings
Court records reveal Nietz’s past involvement in acts of arson: a fire at Mall of America in 2012 and a trash can blaze at MSP Airport in 2023. He is currently detained at Hennepin County Jail for a probation violation and is scheduled for a court appearance on Monday.
