OWATONNA, MN, May 24, 2022 – Owatonna Firefighters responded to a rural structure fire May 23.
Just before 4 p.m. May 23, the Owatonna Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire in rural Merton Township. Upon arrival, fire crews observed a 100- by 60-foot outbuilding burning. The building had already collapsed.
Firefighters focused their efforts on ensuring the fire did not spread to any other outbuildings and extinguishing the fire. The Owatonna Fire Department was assisted at the scene by Steele County Sheriff’s deputies, Mayo Ambulance and Medford Fire. A firefighter was evaluated by Mayo Ambulance at the scene but was not transported. No other injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation; however, it is suspected to have been caused by a nearby burn pile.
The Owatonna Fire Department maintains a state of readiness 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In addition to responding to emergencies, Owatonna firefighters also conduct fire code inspections to help property owners eliminate unsafe conditions in their buildings. They also provide public education opportunities to our community throughout the year to prevent fires before they happen.