BREAKING NEWS: Owatonna business damaged by fire Tuesday
Photo courtesy Dylan Weese
Nelson Decorating Center in Owatonna remained closed Wednesday, after a fire broke out in the building at 121 Oakdale St. late Tuesday night.
Firefighters responded to the report of a fire alarm sounding and visible smoke at around 11:21 p.m. Crews found light smoke inside the building; a fire sprinkler system controlled the fire until they were able to fully extinguish the fire.
Firefighters remained on scene for about two and a half hours to ventilate the building and to help with the fire cause investigation, which is ongoing. Damages are estimated at $350,000.
A neighboring business, Sherwin Williams, sustained very minor smoke and water damage. No civilian or firefighter injuries have been reported.
Fire Chief Ed Hoffman said the fire is “a great reminder for other businesses that have sprinkler and fire alarm systems to have them inspected regularly to ensure they are working properly.”
“Having a working sprinkler system helped prevent more extensive damage to the business,” he added.
Owatonna Police Department and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office assisted the fire department at the scene.