Firefighters Battle Blaze On First Street In Stillwater

A section of First Street North was closed off for a couple of hours Wednesday afternoon while firefighters battled a blaze at 1824 First St. N. in Stillwater.

No one was injured.

"This is surreal," Zach Schwartz said as he watched firefighters extinguish a fire in the home he grew up in. "It's just unreal. It doesn't seem like this is really my house yet. I feel like when everyone is done, I'll be able to go in and get my clothes, but I know that's not going to be the case. I'm just glad our family friend got out with our cat and dog."

The house was built in 1887, Schwartz said.

Stillwater firefighters were called to a report of a structure fire at 1:23 p.m.

Upon arrival, Stillwater Fire Chief Stu Glaser said fire and smoke showing from the second floor windows. Stillwater firefighters advanced hose lines to the second floor and began an interior fire attack.

At that time, firefighters also provide, search and rescue, water supply, ventilation and overhaul.

"Firefighters rescued the family’s pet cat and were able to salvage some of the homeowner’s belongings," Glaser said.

The fire was reported by a neighbor, Glaser said. The estimated damage to the home and the contents within is $50,000.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, but Schwartz said he was told it may have been an electrical issue.