UPDATE 10/8/2024: The individual who had previously been reported as suffering from a critical injury has been identified as Edgar Coppersmith, 47, of Tioga, and he has succumbed to his injuries.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact:
Detective Dan Ward
Williams County Sheriff’s Office
danielw@co.williams.nd.us
701-609-0774
Situation Update: Ray Area Fires – October 6, 2024 @ 11:45 AM CT
RAY, N.D. (October 6, 2024, 11:45 AM CT): More than eighteen local and regional agencies have been involved in the emergency response to large area grass fires in eastern Williams County on October 5 and October 6, 2024. As of 11 am on October 6, 2024, a large fire is still burning south of Highway 2 between Ray and Tioga, and first responders are continuing to respond to hotspots. Highway 2 is open and passable, but drivers should use caution and be aware of down power lines and poles.
First responders have reported one death and one critical injury to the Williams County Emergency Operations Center as a result of the fires.
Johannes Nicolaas Van Eeden, 26, of South Africa, succumbed to critical injuries from fire in the Ray area. An additional individual with a critical injury has been transported for medical care.
The extent of property damage is still being assessed. Williams County/Williston Emergency Management and the ND Highway Patrol are utilizing aircraft to survey the affected areas and determine the size and scope of impact.
No other information will be released at this time. Additional information will be released as we are able.
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