A devastating early-morning fire has left the Masjid Hamza Al-Mahmood Foundation and Baitul Hikmah Academy community in Prior Lake reeling after flames tore through the shared building before dawn on Monday. The fire, first spotted shortly after 2 a.m. by a passerby driving along Highway 13, quickly grew into a large blaze that emergency crews struggled to contain. According to facility manager Isaiah Broberg, the witness immediately called for help after seeing flames coming from the roof.
When firefighters arrived at the scene, they found the building already heavily involved, with fire burning through the roof and spreading rapidly inside. The Prior Lake Fire Department reported that crews encountered significant challenges due to the structure’s vaulted ceiling, which made the fire harder to reach and extinguish. As firefighters worked to control the flames, part of the roof collapsed, forcing them to adjust their approach for safety. Despite the intensity of the fire, officials confirmed that no one was inside the building at the time, and no injuries were reported.
The building served as both a mosque and a school, providing a prayer space for the Muslim community and hosting classes for roughly 200 students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The facility has long been a central part of the community, offering religious instruction, academic programs, and a space for families to gather. The fire not only damaged the physical structure, but also left many people shocked and heartbroken as they arrived Monday morning expecting a normal day of prayer and study, only to find emergency crews, charred walls, and smoke still rising from the wreckage.
In the immediate aftermath, Baitul Hikmah Academy shifted all students to e-learning to avoid disrupting their education. School leaders are now exploring solutions for in-person learning, including renting temporary classroom space or relocating some students to the school’s two other campuses in the Prior Lake area. While families and staff adjust to distance learning, administrators have emphasized their commitment to ensuring students continue their studies smoothly while also beginning the process of recovery and rebuilding.
The emotional toll on the community has been significant. For many, the mosque is more than a place of worship—it is a home, a gathering point, and a symbol of identity and shared values. Members described the experience of seeing the damage as painful and surreal, especially for those who had planned to attend morning prayers or bring their children for classes. Community members have already begun supporting one another, with many expressing gratitude that no lives were lost, even as they mourn the destruction of the space that has served them for years.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire. Investigators are examining the remains of the building to understand how the blaze began and whether any structural or electrical issues played a role. Officials say it may take time before they can provide clear answers due to the extent of the damage. For now, the focus remains on supporting displaced students, helping families navigate temporary changes, and giving the community room to grieve while also looking ahead to rebuilding.
This remains a developing story, and updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
