On Friday, an explosion occurred near Willow River, Minnesota, prompting emergency responses and public safety warnings. The incident took place at 1:43 p.m. in a rural area west of the town, specifically near Mikrot Road and Fox Lake Road, close to Highway 41.
Explosion Details
According to the Pine County Sheriff’s Office, the explosion was caused by a large gas line rupture. In response to the incident, multiple fire departments and law enforcement agencies arrived on the scene. While much of the area has been declared safe, certain parts remain inaccessible.
Evacuations and Safety Measures
- Nearby residents were asked to evacuate for safety.
- As of 5 p.m. Friday, most residents were allowed to return home.
- Three individuals still cannot access their homes due to ongoing safety protocols.
Impact on Gas Services
Approximately 500 customers in Willow River and Sturgeon Lake are currently without gas service. Minnesota Energy Resources is collaborating with the transmission pipeline operator to restore service as safely and quickly as possible. It may take several days for full restoration, and assistance from crews across the state has been activated.
No Criminal Activity Suspected
The Pine County Sheriff’s Office reports that there is no suspicion of criminal activity related to the explosion. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries.
Eyewitness Accounts
A witness described the explosion as incredibly loud, akin to the sound of a fighter jet. Photographs from the scene captured flames rising high above the treetops, illustrating the severity of the incident. Stan Bodnar, affiliated with Bethany Camp in the vicinity, had to evacuate several workers for safety.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information emerges. For comprehensive coverage, stay tuned to El-Balad.
