Mahnomen County (trfnews.i234.me) – Fire crews spent hours at the Waabigwan Mashkiki cannabis facility near Mahnomen.
They worked on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, to control a dangerous lab fire.
The fire broke out in the processing lab area, where butane gas is used.
Because of the risk of a blast, teams made a careful plan.
Firefighters stayed back and let the fuel burn while they protected the area.
Officials said the goal was to avoid adding oxygen that could cause an explosion.
Crews watched the building from a safe distance as flames consumed the butane-rich lab.
A 300-yard safety zone was set up around the site.
Homes and businesses inside that zone were evacuated as a precaution.
Residents were asked to leave quickly and stay away until the fire was under control.
Law enforcement and tribal officials helped block nearby roads.
Specialist units also joined the response.
The Moorhead Hazard Response Team was called in to assist local crews.
The Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office also responded to help guide the scene.
More details about that agency’s work are available on the State Fire Marshal website.
Image: Mugshot connected to the Mahnomen County investigation.
According to officials, the fire stayed in the lab section of Waabigwan Mashkiki.
Other parts of the cannabis operation did not suffer major damage.
One staff member working in the lab received minor burns.
That employee was treated and released from care the same day.
No other injuries were reported.
After several hours, the butane supply burned off, and flames began to fade.
Crews then moved closer to check hot spots and secure the structure.
Authorities later lifted the evacuation order once the scene was judged safe.
People who had left their homes and businesses were allowed to return.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is now underway.
Fire investigators are looking at equipment, safety systems, and lab procedures.
Officials say they will also review how the evacuation plan worked.
The Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office will oversee much of that work.
Waabigwan Mashkiki is part of the White Earth Nation’s cannabis program.
Information about the tribe and its businesses can be found on the White Earth Nation website.
The facility processes products for the tribe’s retail operations.
Tribal leaders have not yet released a full damage estimate.
They say the focus remains on safety checks and getting answers about the fire.
Safety officials often urge lab operators to follow strict rules when using butane and other gases.
Guidance on safe handling of flammable gases is available from OSHA and related agencies.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
