Early Morning Blaze Contained at Ortonville Casey’s General Store

Northeast Radio SD News – Ortonville, MN - Local fire crews battled an early morning structure fire at Casey’s General Store on Wednesday, Feb. 4, successfully preventing the flames from claiming the entire building.

According to Ortonville Fire Chief Kirby Athey, firefighters arrived on the scene to find heavy smoke pouring from the roof vents. Thanks to a rapid response and coordinated attack, crews were able to contain the fire to the kitchen area, though the rest of the facility suffered significant smoke damage throughout.

A Multi-Agency Response

The containment effort required mobilizing local and regional resources, including the Ortonville Fire Department, supported on-site by Big Stone City and Odessa Fire Departments, Ortonville Ambulance for emergency services, and law enforcement agencies such as the Big Stone County Sheriff’s Department, Lac qui Parle County Sheriff’s Department, and the Minnesota State Highway Patrol.

The Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office was also called to the scene to assist with the investigation.

Crews officially cleared the scene at approximately 4:15 a.m. While the kitchen bore the brunt of the fire damage, the extent of smoke damage to the store’s inventory and interior is still being assessed.

The cause of the fire has not yet been released. Residents can look for a full report and additional details in next week’s edition of the Ortonville Independent.