West Virginia Investigators: Harpers Ferry Fire Started on Business Patio
A state agency spokesman says a fire in Harpers Ferry, W. Va.’s, commercial area began on the rear patio of a business.
Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety spokesman Lawrence Messina tells The Herald-Mail that the cause of the fire hasn’t been determined.
The July 23 fire damaged four buildings housing eight businesses and several apartments in the lower town business district.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office estimates the fire caused $2 million in damage. Messina says some of the buildings cannot be rebuilt. The others must be evaluated by structural engineers.
U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito visited the scene of the fire on Thursday and met with local officials. The West Virginia Republican says she plans to try and obtain some federal assistance to help the business district recover.
Related:
- West Virginia’s Historic Harpers Ferry Devastated by Fire
- West Virginia Investigators: Harpers Ferry Fire Started on Rear Patio of Business