Via press release:
The Bismarck Fire Department battled an early morning structure fire in the Manhattan Building located at 1022 East Divide Avenue. The fire was reported at 12:36 a.m. by a passerby. Five fire engines responded and upon arrival encountered fire, heavy smoke, and heat. An interior fire attack controlled the spread of the fire to a limited area in the lower level of the building.
No persons were injured during the fire. Six businesses have been temporarily displaced due to the fire and smoke damage. The fire loss is estimated at approximately $ 500,000.
Fire units remained on scene removing smoke and heat from the building until 5:30 a.m. The fire appears to be accidental and originated in a lower level office area. The possible cause involves electrical components used to power office equipment.
