On Wednesday, January 21st, the D-Shift crews of the Great Falls Fire Rescue responded to two separate structure fires within the City of Great Falls. Both incidents were brought under control quickly, and thankfully, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
First Structure Fire – 711 1st Ave North
At approximately 1:47 p.m., crews were dispatched to a report of a structure fire at 711 1st Avenue North. Upon arrival, firefighters observed moderate dark smoke coming from the roof area and the roof vent of the Howard’s Pizza building.
Crews entered the structure, initiated a primary search, and began fire control efforts. The fire was primarily located in the kitchen area near the ceiling, with flames extending into the roof. Firefighters brought the fire under control within approximately 6-8 minutes of their arrival.
Northwestern Energy was called in to shut off and secure gas and electrical services. A single-engine callback was initiated, and a mutual aid request was made to the Malmstrom Fire Department and the Montana Air National Guard Fire Department to backfill two of GFFR’s stations. Crews remained at the scene to conduct overhaul operations and check for any fire extension in the roof.
The fire caused extensive damage to the kitchen and roof area, while heat and smoke affected much of the interior of Howard’s Pizza. Next door, the Stein Haus experienced minimal smoke damage. The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation and appear to be accidental in nature.
Second Structure Fire – 3010 11th Avenue South
At approximately 4:04 p.m., D-Shift responded to a second structure fire at 3010 11th Avenue South. Crews arrived to find smoke coming from an apartment complex. Upon entry, firefighters located a bed on fire inside a first-floor apartment.
The fire was quickly contained within minutes of arrival. Crews conducted a primary search and checked for fire extension on the second and third floors before ventilating all three floors and apartments.
A callback and mutual aid were not required, as the single-engine callback from the earlier incident remained staffed and available. The fire did not spread beyond the room of origin, and damage was limited to the contents in the affected apartment, with only minor smoke and flame damage noted. The occupants of the affected apartment were advised to stay at an alternate location, while all other residents were able to safely return to their homes, and utilities remained operational. Fire investigators determined the fire was accidental.
These incidents highlight the importance of having working smoke alarms, promptly reporting fires, and maintaining clear escape paths in homes and businesses.
By Karen Anderson: January 22, 2026 – Great Falls, Mt
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
