A Bismarck man and woman were arrested Tuesday after a fire broke out in their apartment, allegedly started by their 3-year-old son. The pair now face child neglect charges as authorities investigate whether proper supervision was lacking.
The incident occurred at an apartment complex in north Bismarck, drawing fire crews from the Bismarck Fire Department and attention from neighbors. According to reports, the toddler may have accidentally ignited a small blaze inside the unit.
Local child welfare officials are also involved, assessing whether the home environment met safety standards. In recent years, Bismarck has seen increasing discussion of childcare resources and fire safety awareness in multi-unit housing.
Neighbors say they’d heard the family argue days before the incident. One neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous, told “I heard a child crying late at night the last few days. I never imagined something like this would happen right next door.”
The Fire Chief, in a written statement, noted that while damage was contained, the case raises questions about smoke alarms, fire escape plans, and housing safety compliance in Bismarck’s older apartment buildings.
The Bismarck Police Department confirmed both adults were booked on felony child neglect charges, pending further investigation. The state’s Department of Human Services is reviewing whether additional care violations exist.
Court records show that the couple is scheduled to appear before the Morton County District Court later this week. Their attorney has declined comment so far.
A Bismarck city council member commented: “This tragedy, thankfully without serious injury, should prompt us to review building codes in our multifamily units.”
This incident is more than a criminal case—it’s a reminder that child safety, housing standards, and community vigilance must go hand in hand in Bismarck. As the investigation unfolds, local leaders may face calls to strengthen fire safety codes in apartments and increase support for at-risk families.
