Stanton : Officials Rule Out Arson in Rental Complex Fire

A fire that raced through nine apartments in three buildings and left about 40 people homeless Thursday is believed by investigators to have been accidentally caused, although they say they will investigate the scene Monday before making a final determination.

“We feel confident in ruling out arson,” said Fire Marshal Chuck Gillette, who noted that the blaze began in one of the three buildings and spread quickly to the others. The apartments were made uninhabitable when the roofs collapsed, he said, adding that one structure will probably have to be bulldozed while the others will require extensive work.

Some of the residents made arrangements to stay with relatives and friends, Gillette said, while others are staying in motel rooms courtesy of the Red Cross and receiving some cash for food and other necessities. The fire caused an estimated $750,000 in damage.

The first alarm was received by the Fire Department at about 11:56 p.m. Wednesday. Officials said all three buildings were fully involved when firefighters arrived on the scene.