A fire in Williams County left one person dead and another seriously injured

RAY, N.D. (KFYR) – More than eighteen local and regional agencies were involved in the emergency response to large-scale grass fires in eastern Williams County on October 5 and 6, 2024. As of 11 a.m. October 6, 2024, a large fire is still burning south of Highway 2 between Ray and Tioga and first responders continue to respond to hotspots. Highway 2 is open and passable, but motorists should exercise caution and watch for downward power lines and poles.

First responders have reported one death and one serious injury to the Williams County 911 dispatch center as a result of the fires.

Johannes Nicolaas Van Eeden, 26, from South Africa, died from serious injuries sustained in a fire in the Ray area. Another person with a serious injury was transported for medical treatment.

The extent of the property damage is still being determined. Williams County/Williston Emergency Management and the ND Highway Patrol are using aircraft to survey affected areas and determine the size and extent of impacts.

No further information is being released at this time.

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