Crews battle a fire at Bergquist Scandinavian Gift shop

Fire fighters are on scene of a fire at the Bergquist Scandinavian Gift shop at 1412 MN-33 in Cloquet. Cloquet Area Fire District Stations were dispatched at approximately 4:18 PM Wednesday afternoon and reported heavy black smoke coming from the center of the warehouse portion of the building.  CAFD Engine 1 made an interior fire attack with heavy smoke and moderate fire conditions present.  Crews operated interior and were able to extinguish a large volume of fire but were unable to reach all areas that were actively burning. 

Command adjusted to an exterior strategy due to weakened roof structure and heavy snow loads.  Two aerial ladder apparatus were set up for master stream operations and the fire is currently being attacked from above.  Mutual aid is being provided by Carlton Fire, Esko Fire, Air Guard Fire, St. Louis County rescue squad and units were assisted by Cloquet PD and City of Cloquet Water and Street Departments. 

As of 7:30 PM, firefighting efforts are ongoing with the roof over the warehouse portion of the building partially collapsed.   Units will be on scene throughout the evening.  All occupants had exited the building and at this time there are no reports of injuries to occupants or firefighters.

Bergquist Scandinavian Gifts is a long-standing business in the community. It is family owned and operated. Bergquist Imports is an importer of Fine Scandinavian and European Gift items.

WDIO has a crew at the scene and will update this story as more information is available.