New Release from the Grand Forks Police Department
On October 23, officers were dispatched to 631 4th Avenue South for a domestic disturbance at approximately 22:17 p.m. This situation quickly escalated into an open residential fire and the Grand Forks Fire Department was also dispatched along with Altru Health Systems.
The suspect, who was later identified as James Laducer (36), was inside the residence when an altercation occurred between, he and the primary victim, Clara Falcon. Laducer managed to inflict serious bodily injury upon Falcon and then proceeded to light various objects on fire within the residence, causing open flame. Also inside the residence were two young juveniles.
Laducer attempted to flee the scene and was intercepted by law enforcement as he exited out of a second-story window. Then, he began to engage officers in another physical altercation outside. Laducer was taken into custody by officers on the scene, and thankfully, Falcon and the two juveniles were not injured by the fire. The Grand Forks Fire Department promptly responded and began to engage the flames. All parties involved were medically seen by Altru Health Systems staff.
Laducer was ultimately arrested for endangerment by fire (x3 counts), preventing arrest, and domestic aggravated assault and then was transported to the Grand Forks County Correctional Center.
News Release from the Grand Forks Fire Department
At approximately 10:23 pm on Wednesday, October 24th, the Grand Forks Fire Department responded to 631 4th Ave S for a report of a structure fire. Fire crews arrived on the scene and found fire and smoke showing from the first and second floors of a two-story house. Crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire and confine the damage to the second story of the house. Two occupants of the building were transported from the scene with unknown injuries. No responders were injured during the incident.
The Grand Forks Fire Department responded with five engines, one truck, and a command vehicle with 21 personnel. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The fire department was assisted by the Grand Forks Police Department and Altru Ambulance.
The incident has concluded, and there is no known threat to the public. No individuals were injured throughout this incident. Anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident is encouraged to contact the Grand Forks Police Department.
