Emergency personnel respond to shed ‘explosion’

Broadwater County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the scene of a shed explosion on Oct. 15 in Three Forks. Photo Courtesy of Broadwater County Sheriff’s Office.

At approximately 11:12 a.m. on October 15, 2026, Broadwater County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported explosion at 20 Ava Way in Three Forks.

Deputies arrived within four minutes of the initial report.

Upon arrival, deputies were advised by neighbors that a shed associated with the residence had “exploded” and that flames were visible near the back porch. Deputies observed neighbors assisting Richard Randy Ricks, who was lying on the ground with injuries. Ricks was transported to Bozeman Deaconess Hospital for treatment of burns and a head injury.