Propane Heater Explosion in Three Forks Sends Man to Hospital
I will readily admit that I have been extremely lucky using portable heat sources. Small, generally electric powered heaters are pretty common in houses or the garage across Montana. And they are pretty useful in a needed situation when another heat source isn't available.
They are also an incredibly dangerous heat source if not monitored. I've melted a few sockets leaving one running longer than it should. Again, extremely lucky. Those dangers are also prevalent when using portable propane heaters which led to a scary explosion in Three Forks, Montana that sent a man to the hospital for burns and treatment.
Propane Heater Explosion in Three Forks Sends Man to Hospital
On Thursday October 15, 2026, officers with the Broadwater County Sheriff's Office were alerted to an explosion neat the small town of Three Forks, Montana. Responding officers arrived and were informed by neighbors that the shed at the home had exploded and was still on fire.
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Officers also were alerted to neighbors assisting a man lying on the ground, identified as Richard Randy Ricks in the police report. The press release stated that Ricks was "transported to Bozeman Deaconess Hospital for treatment of burns and a head injury."
Portable Propane Tank Likely Cause for Late Morning Blast in Three Forks, Montana
After the Three Forks Fire Department extinguished any remaining flames, investigators were able to sift through the rubble for a possible cause. The Montana State Fire Marshal’s Office initial findings indicate a propane heater in the shed is the likely cause behind the explosion.
The investigation is ongoing, with no exact determination of the cause official until it has ended. The American Red Cross is assisting with the family; the home is considered a total loss, along with the family's vehicle. Neighbors surrounding the home also sustained minimal damage from falling debris.
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