Grand Forks Apartment Fire Kills Man, Displaces Five
GRAND FORKS, ND (northwestmnnow.com) – A deadly apartment fire in Grand Forks claimed the life of a 70-year-old man and displaced five other residents.
The fire happened Saturday evening, October 10, 2026, at an apartment building located at 620 Conklin Avenue.
The victim was later identified as Richard Helmowski, 70, according to updated reports released October 15.
The Grand Forks Fire Department confirmed that the fire was contained to one apartment. The cause remains under investigation.
Firefighters Respond to Burning Apartment
Emergency crews were dispatched to the apartment building at approximately 6:08 p.m. Saturday.
When firefighters arrived, they discovered smoke and flames coming from one of the units.
Crews quickly entered the apartment and began working to extinguish the flames.
Firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading into neighboring apartments.
During the emergency response, crews removed one person from the burning unit.
Emergency medical personnel attempted to provide treatment, but the occupant was pronounced dead.
Authorities later identified the victim as Richard Helmowski.
Five Residents Displaced by Fire
The fire forced five other residents from their homes, according to the Grand Forks Fire Department.
The American Red Cross began assisting those affected by the incident.
The organization helps people displaced by disasters with immediate needs, including temporary shelter and essential supplies.
No other residents or firefighters were reported injured during the emergency.
Additional information about disaster assistance is available through the American Red Cross.
Large Emergency Response on Conklin Avenue
The Grand Forks Fire Department sent 18 personnel to battle the apartment fire.
The response included five fire engines, one ladder truck, and one command vehicle.
Several other agencies assisted with the emergency response.
Those agencies included the Grand Forks Police Department, Altru Ambulance, the American Red Cross, and Xcel Energy.
Emergency crews worked to control the flames and protect other residents inside the building.
Cause of Deadly Fire Remains Under Investigation
Fire investigators continue examining what caused the blaze.
Officials reported no signs of foul play in an October 15 update.
However, authorities have not announced a final cause of the fire.
More information about local fire safety programs is available through the Grand Forks Fire Department.
Fire Department Urges Smoke Alarm Safety
Following the deadly fire, officials reminded residents to test their smoke detectors every month.
Working smoke alarms provide early warnings when dangerous smoke enters a home.
Residents should also keep exits clear and develop an escape plan for emergencies.
Additional safety recommendations are available through the U.S. Fire Administration.
The investigation into the October 10 fire remains ongoing.
I’m David Keller reporting for Northwest MN Now News.
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