Massive Fire Engulfs Maintenance Shed on Duluth Ore Dock

URGENT UPDATE: A fire has erupted atop the Canadian National Railway ore dock in Duluth, with crews battling the blaze just before noon on July 16, 2023. The Duluth Fire Department responded swiftly to reports of a structure fire at the ore docks located on the 200 block of 37th Avenue West.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a maintenance shed on Dock 6 “fully involved in fire.” This shed, situated nearly halfway out on the half-mile-long dock, is integral to the loading of ships with taconite pellets. Firefighters from four stations were deployed to contain the flames and successfully prevented the fire from spreading to the surrounding ore docks.

No injuries have been reported, and the estimated damage to the maintenance shed is approximately $60,000. Canadian National Railway staff assisted by securing a water source, while a fire truck utilized additional water from the nearby bay to combat the fire.

The Duluth Fire Marshal’s office is currently investigating the cause of this significant incident. Dock 6, which has been operational since 1918, extends into St. Louis Bay from the shoreline of the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Its neighboring Dock 5 is currently inactive.

Residents and local businesses are urged to stay clear of the area as crews continue to assess the situation. The fire department’s immediate response has minimized potential damage, but the investigation into the cause will provide clarity on how this incident occurred.

Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.