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At 09:44 today, the Duluth Fire Department responded for a report of an explosion and possible structure fire at 514 N 18th Ave E. A Duluth Fire Department Deputy Fire Marshal was nearby and arrived first on scene.  He reported heavy black smoke coming from the building.  He also reported that the male owner/occupant had injuries from the fire.  Mayo Clinic Ambulance was requested to respond and treated the male.  DPD officers assisted with blocking traffic from the area.  4 Quint from the UMD Station arrived and found heavy smoke and fire coming from the tuck under garage.  The 4 Quint crew advanced a handline to the rear of the building down the alley and cut open the overhead door of the garage to attack the fire. A vehicle was parked in the garage at the time of the fire and was significantly damaged.  Units from Headquarters Station arrived from downtown and assisted in establishing a water supply and began a search of the building.  No other occupants were found and the fire was not extending into the upper floors.  Crews from 6 Station in Lakeside and 11 Station in Woodland arrived and assisted in extinguishment efforts. Quick arrival and actions kept the main fire damage to the garage area but the house suffered significant smoke damage.  Crews were on scene for approximately 2.5 hours and the fire is being investigated by the Fire Marshal's office.

Initial damage estimates are $35,000 to the structure and $55,000 to the contents. Only the owner/occupant was injured in the fire with minor burns and some smoke inhalation.  No firefighters were injured. Firefighters responded from UMD, Headquarters, Lakeside, and Woodland stations. The DFD was assisted on scene by the DPD, Mayo Ambulance and Duluth Water and Gas.