Fargo (trfnews.i234.me) — One person was hurt after a chemical ignited in a lab at North Dakota State University.
What happened
The call came in around 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 22.
Crews responded to Sugihara Hall on the NDSU campus in Fargo.
Fargo is the county seat of Cass County.
The building is at 1311 Albrecht Blvd., near Centennial and Albrecht boulevards.
Fire crews were sent after reports of a small explosion.
When firefighters arrived, they found a light haze inside the lab area.
They did not find an active fire, officials said.
Crews checked the space for any ongoing danger.
The incident was contained to the lab area, based on early reports.
Injury and response
Officials said a worker was injured while handling the chemical.
The chemical ignited during the handling, according to responders.
Fargo Fire Department crews provided initial help at the scene.
They then assisted with moving the injured person to an ambulance crew.
The person was evaluated and treated by Sanford Ambulance staff.
Officials have not said how serious the injuries were.
About Sugihara Hall
Sugihara Hall is a laboratory-intensive science building at NDSU.
NDSU lists it as a four-story building with a penthouse level.
NDSU says it includes teaching labs and research labs.
The building is about 105,000 square feet.
It supports chemistry and other lab work on campus.
NDSU says it houses chemistry and biochemistry programs.
NDSU also says it houses geosciences programs.
The hall is named for James M. Sugihara, a longtime NDSU leader.
What is not known
Officials have not released the injured person’s name.
They have not identified the chemical involved in the ignition.
They also have not said what started the reaction.
Any findings have not been released so far.
No public timeline has been shared for a final report.
Where to find updates
Readers should also watch for updates from NDSU and fire officials.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.