Bozeman community marks 17 years since gas explosion

BOZEMAN, Mont. – The Bozeman Fire Department is observing the 17th anniversary of a natural gas explosion that impacted their community.

On March 5, 2009, at about 8:00 a.m., a blast destroyed and damaged several historic buildings, according to the Bozeman Fire Department. The explosion affected businesses such as the Pickle Barrel, Lilly-Lu, Tostedt Architects, Montana Trails Gallery Inc, Boodles, American Legion, and Rocking 'R' Bar.

Firefighters responded quickly to the scene and worked to contain the blaze. Tara Bowman, the gallery director at Montana Trails Gallery, lost her life in the fire.

This anniversary highlights an important moment in Bozeman's history and the community's response to the event.