UPDATE: A significant fire erupted at the Canadian National Railway ore docks in Duluth just before noon on July 15, 2023. The Duluth Fire Department confirmed that a maintenance shed was “fully involved in fire” upon their arrival at the scene, located on the 200 block of 37th Avenue West.
Fire crews from four stations raced to the scene, successfully containing the blaze and preventing it from spreading to the surrounding ore docks. The shed, situated approximately halfway out on the nearly half-mile-long Dock 6, is actively used for loading ships with taconite pellets. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, but the damage to the shed is estimated at $60,000.
The fire department reported that staff from Canadian National assisted by securing a water source, while fire trucks also drew additional water from the bay. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Duluth Fire Marshal’s office.
Dock 6, constructed in 1918, extends into the St. Louis Bay from the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Its neighboring structure, Dock 5, is no longer operational, which heightens the urgency of maintaining the active facilities.
As the investigation unfolds, residents and local businesses remain on alert, awaiting further information on the cause and potential impacts of the fire. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
