Moorhead firefighters were called to a report of a fire in apartment number 4 at 1011 20th St S just after 8:15pm this evening. Shortly after arrival, crews extinguished a fire in the kitchen and dining room area of the apartment which suffered heavy fire damage. Light smoke also affected common areas of the building.
Two occupants of the apartment were not home at the time of the fire, having left to shop for groceries after beginning to warm cooking oil on the stove. The burner was left on which eventually ignited the cooking oil, extending to the kitchen cabinets and beyond. Initial damage was estimated at approximately $45,000.
There were no injuries and all residents evacuated safely. At least one apartment will be uninhabitable until repairs are made. The Red Cross is providing housing assistance to affected residents.
Moorhead Fire reminds area residents to never leave cooking materials unattended, and make sure all burners are off and cool to the touch before leaving your home.
Jeff Wallin, Assistant Chief
Public Information Officer
Moorhead Fire Department
(218) 299-5432
