Duluth's emergency crews were on the scene yesterday after a fire broke out at a CN rail facility. According to a public statement by the Duluth Fire Department, the incident occurred on the 200 block of S 37th Avenue W, where firefighters tackled a structure fire at the maintenance shed situated atop the loading docks on the property.
The fire, which was reported at 11:57 am on Sunday, saw an immediate response with Hose lines extended by CN staff, aiding in the initial attack. Due to the efforts of crews from Downtown, Lincoln Park, Duluth Heights, and Spirit Valley, the blaze was confined to the maintenance shed, preventing potential spread to nearby ore docks or additional structures. While battling the flames, one Engine, 7 Engine, and 1 Tower pulled additional water from the bay, supporting the suppression efforts from a secondary water source.
No injuries have been reported in connection with the fire, a relief amid the potential dangers associated with such incidents. However, damage to the maintenance shed is estimated at $60K, a significant loss for the facility. The precise cause of the conflagration remains uncertain; it is currently under the scrutiny of the Duluth Fire Marshal's office, which is leading the investigation into what sparked the event.
In recognition of the successful collaboration that characterized the emergency response, the Duluth Fire Department extended gratitude to its partners at St. Louis County/911 dispatch and the CN Railway staff for their prompt and effective assistance. The joint effort between the fire department and CN staff was a critical component in the swift response to the fire.
