June 4, 2026

This piece includes reporting from The Dakota Scout.

A longtime fixture of downtown Dell Rapids was destroyed Thursday morning after a fast-moving fire tore through the community’s bowling alley and cafe.

Photo courtesy of The Dakota Scout

Emergency crews were dispatched shortly after 6 a.m. to Pinz, where flames were already shooting from the building when firefighters arrived. The front portion of the structure was fully engulfed, sending thick smoke into the air above the city’s historic main street.

Firefighters from Dell Rapids Volunteer Fire Department were aided by crews from surrounding communities, including Sioux Falls Fire Rescue.

They remained on scene late into the morning, still dousing the flames from a ladder truck at 10. a.m.

According to Minnehaha County property records, the building at 320 E. Fourth St. was constructed in 1965. In addition to its bowling lanes, the business housed a restaurant, bar and arcade, making it a longstanding gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

The extent of the damage was not immediately clear, but officials indicated that the building is expected to be a total loss. No injuries were reported.

Pinz has operated under the current name since 2019 when new owners upgraded it with a new scoring system, a party room, dart room and game room for kids. It was acquired by Casey McCoy in 2022, who brought an expanded arcade, video lottery and new menu focused on fresh and local ingredients.

The story is brought to you in partnership with The Dakota Scout, a local news source focused on government and politics. To learn more, click here.