Madeline Island's fire station destroyed

An explosion and fire has destroyed Madeline Island's only fire station and ambulance service.

Town of La Pointe administrator Lisa Potswald says no one was injured in the explosion and fire early Wednesday. Potswald says the town board has declared a state of emergency in order to make the necessary purchases to protect the island residents.

The town will rely on Bayfield, Red Cliff, and Washburn's fire departments for emergencies on the island, which currently can be reached by an ice road to the mainland. The cause of the explosion and fire is under investigation.

The La Pointe Fire Department has 25 volunteer firefighters, 10 ambulance personnel and three police officers. Madeline Island has a year-round population of about 260 people.