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JAMESTOWN – A Jamestown Fire Official says investigators looking into an overnight fire on Thayer Street will likely have a tough time since the building where the fire originated was demolished.
Jamestown Fire Department Battalion Chief Roger Sigular tells WNYNewsNow the fire rapidly spread before crews arrived on scene.
“A fire unchecked will double in size anywhere from two to five minutes or less,” said Chief Sigular. “The fact that no one was living in the buildings and all the utilities were turned off to the buildings it is very suspect as to what the cause is.”
Jamestown Police believe the fire was caused by arson and are now seeking a suspect.
As first reported by WNYNewsNow, video from a Thayer Street resident’s security system shows a person approaching the fire scene around 1:50 a.m. and then running away around 1:54 a.m.
Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the person. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Jamestown Police Department as (716) 483-8477.
The Chief says before the buildings were torn down, fire investigators were able to document much of the scene, however, because a lot of the property was unstable crews were not able to physically enter inside.
“The buildings were unstable, so it is impossible for them to go in and risk injury,” explained Chief Sigular. “But, they are able to grab photographic evidence and also photograph what they are able to see as a demolition crew peels the building away.”
Sigular says in total two dozen firefighters were called to the scene early Wednesday morning. No injuries were reported; however, an emergency demolition was called for two of the structures, with a third suffering heavy damage as well.
Related | Security Camera Video Shows Woman Running From Thayer Street Fire Scene
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