The cause of the Jan. 2 fire that burned down a city block in Arcata is “undetermined” but there is no evidence of foul play, according to a joint release today from the Arcata Fire District and Arcata Police Department.
“Investigators identified several possible ignition sources within the area of origin; however, none could be conclusively confirmed,” the release states. “As a result, the fire has been classified as ‘Undetermined’ in accordance with nationally accepted fire investigation standards. The case will remain open, and the affected properties will be released back to the property owners.”
Seven businesses and eight apartments were destroyed in the blaze that moved swiftly through the 800 block at 10th and H streets amid high winds after being spotted by an Arcata Fire crew, with damage estimated at $20 million. No injuries were reported but some residents lost their pets in the fire.
Among the locations destroyed were Dandar’s Boardgames and Books, Northtown Books, Global Village Gallery, Vanilla Sky Co., Tenth Street Studios — housing the works of four local artists — as well as the Hensel’s Ace kitchen, candy and paint stores.
Find previous coverage here, here and here.
The release states the “undetermined” classification “means that the available information does not clearly indicate a single cause. It reflects the responsibility of investigators to avoid speculation when evidence does not support a definitive conclusion.”
As part of the nearly three-week investigation, Arcata Fire “conducted the fire origin and cause investigation, which included examining fire damage, reviewing scene conditions, and evaluating potential ignition sources” and APD assisted “by conducting witness interviews and reviewing available video footage to help establish a timeline of events.”
According to the release, if any “new credible information becomes available, it will be reviewed using established investigative practices.”
“The Arcata Fire District and Arcata Police Department remain committed to public safety, fire prevention, and providing accurate information to the community,” it states.
A series of fundraising events are set for next weekend, including a three-day benefit concert at Humbrews called Arcata Rising, and will culminate with a heroes parade at the plaza on Feb. 1. An interactive map, along with links to fire relief resources and vetted donation sites, can be found on the Arcata Chamber of Commerce website.
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