Fire That Destroyed Massachusetts Warehouse Ruled Accident

A five-alarm fire that destroyed a warehouse at a mill complex in Charlton, Mass., has been ruled an accident.

State Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan and Charlton Fire Chief Charles Cloutier announced their ruling on Monday.

The (Worcester) Telegram & Gazette reports that the July 26 fire began in one of five businesses renting garage space in the building. A work lamp was found in the area, but investigators were unable to determine if it was too close to combustibles that ignited or if it somehow malfunctioned.

Firefighters from about 20 towns battled the blaze at the Charlton Woolen Mill at City Depot Road and Route 31 for more than two hours. Six firefighters suffered minor injuries.