A family still in the process of moving to Marion lost a shop with living quarters and a motor home in an explosive fire on Sunday, according to Marion Fire District Chief Katie Mast.

The structures were deemed a total loss. Approximately 1.5 acres of surrounding wildland also burned, Mast said.

A mother and son were in a small cabin on the property when the fire broke out. The cabin was not affected by the fire and no injuries were reported.

“They heard an explosion and smelled smoke,” Mast said.

Fire crews were dispatched to Lower Lost Prairie Road at 12:13 p.m., including Fisher River Fire and Rescue and four engines from the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

The fire is still under investigation, but is believed to have started when a solar power battery bank inside the shop building either overcharged, or wasn’t properly ventilated, according to Mast. She estimated the fire was extinguished around 9:45 p.m.

“The dad and the rest of the family were still moving stuff and came in as we were wrapping up last night. It was a rough welcome to Montana,” Mast said.

Crews returned Monday to ensure no hot spots remained.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or [email protected].