Driver flees after crashing into transformer, igniting fire at historic St. Paul bar

In St. Paul, Minnesota, a significant incident occurred at the historic bar known as McGovern's on Friday night, resulting in substantial property damage and a fire. The emergency situation arose when a vehicle crashed into an electrical transformer at approximately 11:39 p.m., triggering a blaze that engulfed the top corner of the bar. Witnesses described the event, noting they heard a loud crash followed by a blinding flash of light, indicating the severity of the impact that ultimately led to the fire consuming part of the structure. Following the collision, the bar's operators took to social media to inform their patrons and the community about the event. Through a Facebook post, they expressed relief that no injuries occurred among those present at McGovern's during the incident. The post also reflected the operators' intentions to keep the public updated regarding further developments as they receive more information. The aftermath of this unfortunate event has drawn a mix of concern and support from the local community, particularly among the bar's regular patrons and supporters. The incident highlights issues related to driver accountability and safety measures, as the driver responsible for the crash reportedly fled the scene, raising questions about the associated legal ramifications and the necessity of intervention to address such reckless driving behaviors in the future. Local news organizations, including WCCO, are investigating further details surrounding the incident to keep the public informed. Given the bar's historical significance in the area, there is a strong interest in understanding how the damage will impact its operation and the community it serves. As updates unfold, McGovern's management has expressed gratitude for the assistance offered by their patrons and the community at large, emphasizing a strong collective spirit in the face of adversity.