At 2:08 a.m. on April 18, 2025, the Warrens Area Fire District was dispatched to a commercial structure fire at 23879 Aspen Avenue, the site of the Warrens Cold Storage facility and American Berry Company building. Initial reports from dispatch indicated the back half of the building was in flames, with concern that at least one individual may still be inside.
Upon arrival, crews found the roof of the Warrens Cold Storage building heavily involved. Firefighters ensured the building was fully evacuated and began exterior fire suppression efforts. One point of concern early in the incident was the storage of anhydrous ammonia in a room directly below the fire area. Crews worked swiftly and strategically to prevent the fire from spreading further and to protect hazardous areas.
The fire was successfully contained to the roof and roofing insulation of the Warrens Cold Storage building. However, both that facility and the adjacent American Berry Company sustained significant interior smoke and water damage.
A total of 37 firefighters from six different fire departments responded and remained on scene for a total of six hours. There were no reported injuries. An approximate 250,000 gallons of water were used during the incident.
The fire was determined to have been caused by a lightning strike during the overnight storm activity.
Assisting the Warrens Area Fire District on scene were the Tomah Fire Department, Oakdale Fire Department, Fort McCoy Fire Department, and Black River Falls Fire Department.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, Monroe County Sheriff’s Department – 911 Communications Division, Monroe County Emergency Management, Tomah Area Ambulance Service, WE Energies, Alliant Energy, Village of Warrens Public Works Department, Kuhlman Inc., and Cranberry Country Café for their support and assistance during the incident.
