Building Significantly Damaged By Fire In Downtown Hibbing

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Hibbing fire officials say an investigation is underway after a building was significantly damaged by fire in the city's downtown area early Monday morning.

The city's fire department responded at 5:01 a.m. to the report of a fire at the Brickyard, located at 408 E Howard St. in downtown Hibbing.

When fire crews arrived, they encountered heavy smoke coming from the front and rear of the downtown building, prompting them to call for more resources.

Fire officials say the building contains a sports bar and restaurant on the main floor and uninhabited apartments on the second floor.

The building was sprinklered on the main floor and basement. The fire mainly damaged the second floor – which was not sprinklered – and roof of the building.

Current cost estimates for the significant fire, smoke and water damage are expected to exceed $1,000,000, fire officials said.

An adjacent building on the west side sustained moderate smoke damage. Two other adjacent buildings sustained moderate water and smoke damage. Two tenants were displaced are currently being assisted by the Red Cross, fire officials said.

One firefighter injured his back during search efforts, officials said. The injury is minor.