CFD: Fire near north Garth Avenue started from propane tank

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Columbia Fire Department responded to a fire near Garth Avenue north of Interstate 70 on Monday night that started from an explosion at a homeless camp in a wooded area.

Boone County Joint Communications said on its social media that Garth Avenue between Blue Ridge Road and Thurman Street closed due to the fire. Some crews began leaving the scene around 7:15 p.m. Garth Avenue completely reopened at 7:20 p.m.

Columbia fire officials told ABC 17 the fire originated from an explosion from a propane tank at a homeless camp in the area. No injuries have been reported.

A resident in the area told ABC 17 News that they heard a loud bang in the area and saw flames near a park near North Garth Avenue.

"We had residents on Garth Court hear explosions and see fire in the wood line," Columbia fire Capt. Ryan Adams said. "There were multiple propane tanks that were off gassing and did actually explode that were back there."

BCJC: Garth Ave between Blue Ridge and Thurman closed due to fire in the area. Choose alternate route.

— Boone County Joint Communications (@BCJC911) February 7, 2023

Adams said it looked like multiple had been living in the area, but did not see anyone at the camp when units arrived.