Suspicious fires start in Bowman

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Preston Rehm’s dog woke up early Saturday morning to be let out. Usually he sleeps through the night but it’s a good thing he got antsy and woke the residents. Rehm says maybe “Chico” heard something associated with a suspicious fire that destroyed his garage, a couple of vehicles and caused smoke damage in his Bowman home.

Not only was there a fire at Rehm’s home, Halloween weekend was busy for Bowman law enforcement, including responses to other fires and random explosive devices set off around town, according to the Bowman Police Department. The department is asking for help with information on people who may be responsible for starting the fire.

Rehm, his roommate and girlfriend managed to get out of the house, located at 205 Second Ave. S.E., without being injured.

The fire started in a truck parked outside of the garage and spread, according to a press release from the Bowman Police Department. The house, garage and other personal property was also damaged and Bowman Police Chief Charles Headley gives a ballpark damage estimate at $40,000. Rehm said a 1979 Chevy Camaro from his deceased brother, which is his “only memory from him,” is the biggest loss.

Due to the suspicious nature of the fire, the North Dakota State Fire Marshal’s Office and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation are assisting local law enforcement in the investigation, according to the press release.

Rehm believes the fire was intentionally set and hopes anyone who has information will call the police department.

“I want to thank the (fire) department for putting out the fire and thank the community for their support,” he said. “It’s a good little community.”

Some residents partake in “Gate Night,” the night before Halloween where they commit mischief. In the past in Bowman, this has included egging vehicles and homes, along with setting small fires in trash cans, according to the press release from the police department.

“Last year was pretty tame, but it took on a new realm this year,” Headley said.

Furniture was set on fire in alleyways, three trash cans were burned and a number of loud explosives were heard but the cause was not discovered, he said.

The department would like any information associated with the fire. Call 701-523-5672 with information.

Tags: news, local, bowman, fires