ViZn Energy facility damaged in blaze

The ViZn Energy facility on U.S. 2 West outside Columbia Falls was damaged by an early morning fire Wednesday.

Columbia Falls Fire Chief Rick Hagen said the initial call came out about 12:30 a.m. and motorists driving by saw thick black smoke rolling out of the front of the building. VIZn makes industrial batteries the size of shipping containers.

Fortunately, firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the shop and air-compressor room as well as a nearby office, though there was significant heat damage in the ceiling and smoke damage throughout, Hagen noted.

Hagen said there were no chemical spills and none of the containers of caustic material that are stored on-site were damaged. The smell motorists noted was from burning plastic.

“The majority of the building is intact,” he said.

Hagen said the ignition source is still under investigation, but no foul play was suspected.

In addition to Columbia Falls, firefighters from Evergreen and Whitefish responded with mutual aid. They were clear of the scene about 5:20 a.m.