Company: “Ralph” Arena Lawsuit Should Be Tossed

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (AP) — A company accused of negligence for a 2012 fire in the Ralph Engelstad Arena says the lawsuit should be thrown out of federal court.

The complaint filed by Arena Holdings Charitable and RE Arena, Inc., seeks $5 million from Harman Professional, Inc., and Harman International Industries.

Arena officials say the fire originated in a speaker after it became "improperly energized" by a direct electrical current from the amplifier. The fire caused smoke damage and damage to electronics and ice.

The defendants say in a motion filed Friday that an economic loss doctrine does not allow the arena to recover damages.