Credit: Lac qui Parle County Emergency Management
MADISON — A large fire at a John Deere dealership in Madison forced almost two dozen agencies and departments to battle the blaze for hours overnight. Officials say the fire is finally under control, and residents are back in their homes.
Fire Departments responded to the blaze just before 7:15 Tuesday evening after reports of smoke at Midwest Machinery. Officials say a local gas line was also ruptured, which made the firefight even more difficult.
Emergency crews evacuated 15 nearby homes and two apartment complexes for several hours while fire crews worked to contain the blaze. A citywide water restriction was also requested to help save the city storage supply.
Nearby residents have been allowed back into their homes and officials say no injuries were reported, although smoke and fumes from the fire may continue to be a problem for those sensitive to air quality issues.
The primary offices and shop building at Midwest Machinery have been deemed a total loss. Authorities say they’re still investigating the cause of the fire.
