UPDATE: A fire has erupted at the Canadian National Railway ore docks in Duluth, causing significant damage to a maintenance shed. The Duluth Fire Department responded to the emergency just before noon on July 16, 2023, after reports indicated the structure was “fully involved in fire.”
Fire crews raced to the scene on the 200 block of 37th Avenue West, where they found the maintenance shed located about halfway out on the nearly half-mile-long Dock 6, an active facility used for loading ships with taconite pellets. In a rapid response, firefighters from four stations worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to the surrounding ore docks.
According to officials, Canadian National staff played a crucial role in securing a water source for firefighting efforts, while a fire truck also utilized additional water from St. Louis Bay. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of the incident.
The estimated damage to the maintenance shed is pegged at $60,000, as the Duluth Fire Marshal’s office has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Dock 6, which was built in 1918, is situated prominently along the shoreline of the Lincoln Park neighborhood.
As of now, the fire department is working diligently to assess the situation and address any lingering hazards. The community is urged to stay clear of the area as emergency services continue their operations. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available about the cause and extent of the damage.
Stay tuned for ongoing developments regarding this urgent incident affecting the Duluth ore docks.
