Investigators into the fire that caused over $1 million in damage to two buildings in Merritt’s downtown core on June 30 were not able to determine a cause of the fire.
The fire department did determine the blaze started on the exterior and between the buildings in the 2000 block of Quilchena Avenue.
The age and construction of both heritage buildings plus years worth of accumulated garbage between the buildings contributed to the fire spreading, fire chief Dave Tomkinson told the Herald.
However, investigators were unable to determine an ignition source and ruled out mechanical and electrical ignition sources.
The Merritt Fire Rescue Department, RCMP, and fire cause and origin investigators from the insurance companies were involved in the investigation.
Three businesses were lost in the fire because of water and smoke damage: Blooming Pets, Earthwalker Spiritual Shop and Starz Beauty Salon.
The fire also ruined six apartment suites in the second storey above Earthwalker and Starz, which shared a building.
Two of the suites had been occupied, but neither of the occupants was hurt in the fire.
