The Duluth Fire Marshal’s Office is continuing to investigate the cause of a fire at the former headquarters of Gold Cross Ambulance(211 East 2nd Street). Just before 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, a Duluth engine company was dispatched to a report of smoke in the area of 2nd Avenue East and 2nd Street. The crew discovered smoke coming from the building and requested a full alarm response. At the height of the blaze, 30 fire personnel and apparatus from throughout the city were on the scene, along with assistance from the Air National Guard Fire Department. The building had three occupants: RLBCI(Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indian Outreach Center), a microbrewery operation and an auto repair shop. The fire was contained to the body shop area in the center of the building. There was smoke damage throughout the structure. One firefighter suffered a minor shoulder injury. Initial damage estimates are in excess of $150,000.
Photo: WDIO-WIRT TV