Ralph Engelstad Arena Fire Update

Chris Semrau

Document Type

News Article

Publication Date

7-2011

Campus Unit

University of North Dakota

Abstract

Ralph Engelstad Arena suffered a fire on July 3, 2011. This brief news release is intended to provide an update on the damage and recovery process.

  • Overview: On July 3, 2011, a fire occurred at Ralph Engelstad Arena in a cluster of audio speakers located at approximately center ice near the center hung- video display board on the east side of the venue. The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, nor has the full extent of the damage.
  • Cleaning Process: It is estimated that it will take at least a number of weeks to adequately clean the facility from top to bottom as a light soot film exists throughout the building. The fire did not cause structural damage, but there is smoke damage throughout the venue.
  • Sioux Shop: The Sioux Shop will remain closed for the remainder of this week, with hopes that a specific re-opening date can to be confirmed later in the week. All merchandise has been removed from the Sioux Shop and will be replaced with new merchandise after the Sioux Shop and surrounding area have been thoroughly cleaned.
  • Event Updates: All events scheduled for the summer of 2011 will go ahead as planned. Two wedding receptions were held on Saturday, July 9 and a new week of UND Hockey camp began on Sunday, July 10. All other events for the summer of 2011 will take place as scheduled, including The Wiggles family show scheduled for August 3.

“We are continuing to assess the damage and are focused on making sure the facility will be completely operational for the upcoming UND athletic season and the facility’s 10th Anniversary in October,” stated Jody Hodgson, General Manager.

No financial information regarding the estimated damages will be released. Additional information regarding the July 3 fire incident will be released as it becomes available.

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