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Tim Nelson
St. Paul

Authorities: Forest Lake gun shop fire not suspicious

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Updated: March 27, 12:07 p.m. | Posted: March 26, 10 p.m.

A fire ripped through a shooting range and gun shop in downtown Forest Lake Monday night, but everyone inside escaped without serious injury.

The fire started just before 9 p.m., and brought firefighters from Forest Lake and neighboring cities.

Owner Ben Oliver said via Facebook that the cause of the fire was an accident, but wouldn't elaborate further. He said all the staff and customers evacuated the building safely, but a firefighter suffered a knee injury as crews were trying to put out the fire.

Authorities say a fire that destroyed a gun shop and shooting range in Forest Lake doesn't appear to be suspicious.

Washington County sheriff's officials say Lakes Trading is a total loss due to the smoke and water damage from the large fire Monday night.

About 75 firefighters helped battle the blaze.

Oliver said that he hopes to continue cleanup and recovery Tuesday, although he isn't sure what will happen with his seven employees.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.