On Monday at about 9:15 am. St. Cloud Police Department officers and St. Cloud Fire Department firefighters responded to a fire inside the Crossroads Center at 4101 Division St. in St. Cloud.

Officers located evidence of the fire on furniture near the food court. The fire was quickly extinguished by bystanders inside the mall. The St. Cloud Fire Department arrived on scene, confirmed the fire was no longer active, and began ventilation efforts to remove smoke from the mall.

Based on witness statements, officers learned a man intentionally started the fire. Officers found the suspect on scene, identified as 57-year-old Jorge Ozornia from Sauk Rapids. Ozornia allegedly admitted to starting the fire and was taken to the Stearns County Jail.

The Waite Park Police Department also assisted on scene.

Mall operations have been affected due to the damage and ongoing ventilation

The St. Cloud Fire Department responded, and emergency personnel are working to ensure the area is safe before the shopping center reopens. As a precaution, Crossroads Center will remain temporarily closed.

Managers expect Crossroads Center to open later Monday once safety inspections have been completed. They encourage you to check Crossroads' social media channels for updates regarding the opening time.