fbpx

Shop Owner Files Bankruptcy After Explosion

By Beacon Staff

BOZEMAN – The owner of a downtown Bozeman rug gallery that was severely damaged in a natural gas explosion has filed for bankruptcy in federal court.

Jalal Neishabouri, owner of Rocky Mountain Rug Gallery, says he hopes the Chapter 11 filing will buy him some time while he reorganizes his business. According to court documents, Neishabouri owes between $10 million and $50 million to up to 50 creditors.

Neishabouri says he hasn’t been able to fully run his rug business since the March 5 explosion, and he hasn’t been compensated for his damaged building or rugs. He was only recently allowed to use the gallery building again.

Last month, Neishabouri joined a lineup other businesses and building owners who have filed lawsuits against NorthWestern Energy.

The March 5 natural gas explosion killed a woman and destroyed half a city block.