Fire Destroys Storage Buildings at Kansas State University Dairy Unit

An early-morning fire on Wednesday resulted in the destruction of several storage buildings located near the Kansas State University Dairy Unit in Manhattan, Kansas. The fire was reported at 4:05 a.m., just north of the university campus, near College Avenue and Livestock Units Road.

Emergency response included personnel from Riley County Fire District 1 and the Manhattan Fire Department, who were alerted by a passerby calling 911. As they arrived on the scene, heavy flames were observed emanating from multiple storage structures. A total of 42 units responded, including volunteer firefighters and personnel from the Kansas State University Police Department and Riley County Emergency Medical Services.

Officials confirmed that no people or animals were injured during the incident. However, significant damage was sustained by the storage buildings and their contents. The exact monetary value of the damage has not yet been determined.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are being conducted by the Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office and the Kansas State University Fire Marshal. Even several hours after the fire was reported, grain and feed storage bins continued to smolder.

By mid-morning, the Manhattan Fire Department had cleared the scene, although Riley County Fire District 1 personnel and volunteers were expected to remain for several more hours to fully extinguish the fire and conduct mop-up operations. Kansas State University staff were assisting with debris removal using heavy equipment.

Riley County Emergency Services Director and Fire Chief Russel Stukey expressed concerns over high winds potentially spreading embers to other parts of the Kansas State North Farm. He emphasized the need for continued vigilance to prevent further fires. Michelle Geering, a spokeswoman for Kansas State University, extended gratitude for the prompt and sustained response by emergency services.