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WWJC Radio heavily damaged in structure fire

[Duluth, MN] At approximately 3:08 a.m. this morning, the Duluth Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire located at 1120 East McCuen Street. This location is home to WWJC - AM 850 Radio. Someone driving by the location reported that flames were coming from the building. On arrival, crews found heavy smoke and fire located in a one-story equipment building that is attached to the station’s two-story main building.

 Crews from 10 Engine advanced an attack line into the structure and knocked down the main body of the fire. The fire was knocked down within ten minutes of 10 Engine’s arrival. In the meantime, other crews set up a 2,500-foot relay pumping operation from the nearest hydrant. This effort was conducted by members of 2 Engine, 8 Quint, and 1 Engine who helped lay the water supply line.

Crews were on scene for approximately three hours overhauling hot spots within the two buildings.

The equipment building had three transmitters in it. All three were destroyed in the fire. Damage in equipment alone is estimated at over $500,000. Damage costs to the structure are estimated to be around $75,000.

Crews from Headquarters, Duluth Heights, Lincoln Park, and Spirit Valley responded to the call. The Duluth Police Department controlled traffic and protected the water supply during the fire. Minnesota Power came to ensure that power was off within the structure.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Duluth Fire Marshal’s Office. No additional information is available at this time.

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