The cause of last week’s fertilizer storage building fire in Athens is “undetermined,” according to a statement released today.
Officials say weather was not a factor, and there is no evidence or indication of a criminal or intentional act that caused the fire.
The findings were issued by the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office working with the Athens Fire Department, Henderson County Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (Dallas Field Division).
In the press release, Athens Fire Chief John McQueary said, “The fire originated in the northwest quadrant of the building, at ceiling level. Based on the origin of the fire, the only causes that could not be eliminated are related to an electrical failure.”
State Fire Marshal Chris Connealy said, “Per national guidelines and standards, the fire will be classified as undetermined because the ignition source and the first material ignited could not be determined.”
The State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Athens Fire Department, ATF, and Henderson County Fire Marshal’s Office will finalize the fire investigation report in upcoming weeks.
“The city appreciates the hard work and investigation by the agencies involved in determining the final conclusion regarding this incident,” Athens Mayor Jerry Don Vaught said today.
The East Texas AG Supply property was released to the owner Monday.