At approximately 1:08 pm on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024, the Grand
Forks Fire Department was dispatched to 2419 2nd Ave N for a report of a propane leak. Prior to fire units arriving on the scene, bystanders reported that the tanks were on fire.
First units on the scene reported flames coming from the tops of two large propane tanks being used to heat a construction area. Fire crews worked to cool the tanks down and control the fire enough that supply valves could be shut off. Fire damage was contained to construction site materials and the tanks themselves. UND High Performance Center was evacuated, as well as all construction workers in the immediate vicinity.
GFFD responded with 5 fire engines, 1 ladder truck, 1 command vehicle, and 21 personnel. No injuries were reported. GFFD was assisted by employees from the UND Police Department, Grand Forks Police Department, Altru Ambulance, UND Safety, and Northdale Oil.
After investigation, the leak was determined to be accidental due to a broken fitting on a propane tank, with ignition being caused by a nearby heat source.
