Several outbuildings destroyed in fire
On March 20, at approximately 11:14 a.m., the Wadena County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a multi-structure fire at the Brian and Michelle Richter residence in Section 35 of Wadena Township. Emergency personnel arrived to find a small, old barn-style building on fire. The homeowner indicated he was outside working in the shop when he heard a “pop” and looked outside to see the building on fire. It was reported that the building still had electricity. Due to the high winds, the fire quickly spread to an older, one-stall garage-type building, which contained totes of personal belongings which was partially damaged from water and fire. The barn-style building was a complete loss. Also damaged was the siding on the north and west side of the family residence. A kennel-style chicken coop and eleven chickens were also a loss. The Wadena County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Verndale Fire Department, Wadena Fire Department, Tri-County Ambulance, and the State Fire Marshal. The fire is pending investigation.