HIBBING — A passerby reported that the windows of the Yoder Building Supplies Inc. building at 1831 Third Avenue were on fire. E., Friday night at 9:03. By the time firefighters responded, the fire had begun to spread to the roof of the building.
The Hibbing Fire Department launched the massive attack with the mutual assistance of Iron Range’s many partners, including firefighters from Chisholm, Kewatin and Virginia. Later, more support came from the fire departments of Fayal Township, Eveleth, Nashwauk, Grand Rapids and Mountain Iron.
Large buildings containing large amounts of combustibles present challenges. Firefighters deployed excavation equipment and three aerial work vehicles to extinguish the blaze. They remained on site until about 6am on Sunday. The fire was extinguished after a nine-hour effort, but the building is considered a total loss.
The building is believed to be unoccupied at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported. No one suspects foul play, but the Hibbing Fire Chief and the Minnesota State Fire Chief are investigating the fire and its origin, according to a release from the Hibbing Fire Department.