Massive Fire Breaks Out at Minnesota Tractor Dealership
Madison, MN (KROC-AM News)- Officials in western Minnesota say they have gained control of a massive fire that broke out at a tractor dealership.
A joint news release from the Lac qui Parle County Emergency operations center says an hours-long fire fight began shortly after 7 p.m. when a caller near Midwest Machinery in Madison, MN reported seeing smoke coming from the property. Madison firefighters then called for mutual aid upon their arrival.
Officials say a local gas line ruptured during the fire and fed the flames. Authorities evacuated nearby 15 homes and two apartment complexes due to concerns over smoke inhalation from the fire plume.
Some residents as far away as 10 miles reported smelling smoke coming from the fire. Officials set up a reunification center for evacuees to meet, make lodging plans and update loved ones on their situation.
Authorities also implemented a city-wide water restriction to ensure firefighters had enough water to fight the flames and closed a stretch of Hwy. 40 that runs through Madison during the firefighting effort.
Officials say the fire was brought under control around 2 a.m. Wednesday morning. 60 personnel from 23 agencies took part in the fire fight.
No injuries were reported and evacuated residents were allowed to return to their homes. The property’s offices and shop buildings are deemed a total loss. The cause of the fire is not immediately known and is under investigation.