Lawn Mower Believed to be Cause of Fire that Levels Garages in Wahpeton

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A number of garages go up in flames at an apartment complex in Wahpeton.

A number of garages go up in flames at an apartment complex in Wahpeton.

The fire broke out around 5:15 p.m. Wednesday afternoon at the Asbury Apartment complex on Loy Avenue and 12th Street North.

Crews were quickly able to put out embers that jumped to three nearby apartment buildings. But they were not able to save 8 garages and their contents.

Fire officials say there is extensive damage and even some smoke damage to the apartment.

They believe the fire was started by a lawn mower in one of the garages.

“It’s under investigation but we’re leaning toward a lawnmower. Just not cleaning them, hot engines um electrical not the same as a car but they also have electrical ignition and stuff,” says Wahpeton Fire Chief Derek Miller.

Crews from Wahpeton, Breckenridge and Dwight helped put out the fire.