FROM STAFF REPORTS

Fire investigators have been unable to determine the cause and origin of the fire that destroyed three buildings in Downtown Statesville on April 25. 

The City of Statesville announced Thursday morning that the Statesville Fire Marshal’s Office has concluded its investigation of the devastating blaze.

The Fire Marshal’s Office worked closely with the Statesville Police Department, the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, N.C. Office of the State Fire Marshal, and the Iredell County Fire Marshal’s Office.

“After an extensive investigation, the Statesville Fire Marshal’s Office has officially classified the cause of the fire as undetermined,” according to the news release. “Despite thorough efforts to determine the origin and cause of the blaze, conclusive evidence has not emerged to pinpoint the exact causes of the incident.”

The fire destroyed the buildings occupied by GGs art frames gifts, Merrill Lynch and Theatre Statesville. No injuries were reported.

The owners of the three buildings are working with city and county officials as they prepare to move forward with the demolition of the structures. These plans are being made with consideration to the safety and future revitalization of the area.

As a result of the fire’s impact, certain streets and sidewalks in the vicinity of the affected buildings will remain closed to the public, the city announced. These closures are expected to remain until the building facades are either stabilized or removed, ensuring the security of pedestrians and motorists in the area.

Information regarding the demolition process, potential street closures, and related updates will be released once plans are finalized.