Solway, Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) — Fire crews rushed to a barn fire northwest of Solway on Friday evening.
Radio traffic said a vehicle was burning inside the barn.
The call location was 1778 Lamers Road NW, west of Bemidji.
Early radio traffic
Dispatch audio at about 8:17 p.m. sent Solway firefighters to the property.
Minutes later, responders reported heavy fire at the structure.
Video from the scene appears to show the building fully involved.
Large flames and thick smoke rose above the area.
More water requested
Later radio updates said Bemidji crews were called to help supply water.
The request came as crews worked to control the fast-moving fire.
Radio traffic suggested the vehicle fire spread from the barn’s interior to the rest of the building.
At that point, the barn appeared to be lost.
Officials have not released a cause or a damage estimate.
Injuries were not confirmed in the radio traffic shared with TRF News.
This is a developing story, and details may change.
Why water supply matters in rural fires
In rural parts of Beltrami County, water supply can be limited.
Crews may rely on tanker trucks and portable water tanks.
They may also connect to distant hydrants, if any exist nearby.
That can slow down the first attack on a fast fire.
Neighbors near Lamers Road may see smoke for miles.
Drivers should avoid the area and watch for roadblocks.
Smoke can drift and reduce visibility on nearby roads.
People with breathing problems should stay indoors if smoke is present.
Helpful resources
For local public safety information, visit Beltrami County.
For fire service information, see the Bemidji Fire Department.
For state fire guidance and updates, visit the Minnesota State Fire Marshal.
For public tips, review the city’s fire safety resources.
If you have photos or videos, share them safely from a public area.
Do not cross fire lines or enter damaged buildings.
Call 911 if you spot hot spots or downed wires.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.