LINDSTROM, Minn. - Authorities say carbon monoxide is to blame for the deaths of two women who were found Monday.
Around 2:30 p.m., authorities from the Lakes Area Police Department responded to a welfare check of an employee who had not been heard from since Thursday.
Upon arrival, a Lakes Area officer observed an adult female seated slumped over on a couch. Officers forced open the door and ultimately discovered two deceased adult women inside the home.
The two females, ages 53 and 56, both lived at the residence.
A preliminary investigation showed extreme levels of carbon monoxide. Lindstrom Fire and Xcel Energy responded to the scene and ventilated the residence. On further investigation, the exhaust pipe for the furnace was found to be plugged with soot and ice and appeared blocked.
The initial responding officer was treated and released at Fairview Lakes Hospital for carbon monoxide exposure.
The identities of the victims are not being released, pending notification of next of kin.
The State Fire Marshal is reminding homeowners to install carbon monoxide alarms within 10 feet of each sleeping room or inside each sleeping room.
Batteries should be tested monthly and changed twice a year.
