Several Fire Departments Respond to Large Structure Fire in Newport, Minnesota
NEWPORT, MINNESOTA—The Newport Fire Department responded Wednesday afternoon to a commercial structure fire off Hastings Ave. The call came in shortly after 2:00 PM, prompting a rapid deployment of resources to the scene. It was reported that the fire began as a vehicle fire and quickly spread to the nearby structure.
According to the Newport Fire Department, first responders were met with challenging conditions upon arrival as heavy flames engulfed the structure. Despite the intensity of the blaze, the firefighters immediately began to attack the fire. During the incident, one individual required medical attention and was promptly transported to an area hospital for treatment. No firefighters were injured during this incident. As we were on the scene, local law enforcement reported that we should avoid the powerlines to the west (downwind) of the structure, as they had begun to melt due to the heat from the fire. They also reported a brief period where the powerlines began arcing.
The collaborative effort of multiple agencies played a crucial role in managing the situation. The Newport Fire Department sincerely thanks the St. Paul Park Fire, Cottage Grove Fire and EMS, Woodbury Fire, Hastings Fire, Inver Grove Heights Fire, and Lake Elmo Fire for their invaluable assistance and support throughout the operation.
After hours of intense firefighting, the Newport Fire Department cleared the scene at approximately 8:00 PM. Who owned the facility and what was in the building have not been released. The facility was rumored to be a possible mini storage.
Written by: Will Wight