A Minneapolis firefighter was hospitalized early wednesday morning while battling a fire at the former Whiskey Junction bar, located in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. The incident highlights the dangers faced by first responders and the challenges of containing fires in vacant buildings.

The Incident Unfolds

• Initial Response: Fire crews were dispatched to the building, situated off Minnehaha and Cedar avenues, at approximately 12:36 a.m.
• Fire Spread: Upon entering the structure, firefighters discovered that the fire had extended to the second floor and the roof, posing significant challenges to containment.
• Containment Efforts: It took approximately one hour for the crews to successfully extinguish the blaze, demonstrating the intensity and rapid spread of the fire.

Firefighter Injury and Medical Evaluation

During the firefighting efforts, one firefighter required medical attention. According to fire officials, the firefighter was medically evaluated for possible overexertion and subsequently transported to a local hospital for a thorough examination. Fortunately,no other injuries were reported among the firefighting personnel or civilians.

Examination and Background

The cause of the fire remains under active investigation. Authorities are working to determine the origin and circumstances that led to the blaze. The whiskey Junction bar, a local establishment, had been closed since New Year’s Day in 2018, adding complexity to the investigation due to the building’s vacancy.

Community Impact

The fire at the former Whiskey junction serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and prevention measures. The incident also underscores the dedication and bravery of firefighters who risk their lives to protect the community.