Arson Ruled Out in Arkansas Fire; Cause Unknown

Authorities say the cause of a January fire that destroyed four buildings in Kensett, Ark., has been ruled undetermined.

Arkansas State Police investigator Arthur Raff says the fire started in a beauty salon but authorities have been unable to determine an exact location or why the blaze ignited. Raff tells The Daily Citizen that investigators have ruled out arson as a cause.

The fire destroyed four buildings, including Kensett’s municipal building.

Mayor Max McDonald says the city has received $108,000 in insurance money to repair the city council chambers and district courtroom, which were lost in the fire.

Officials are still determining what to do with the buildings damaged in the fire. The city is taking bids for the removal of the buildings, which were contaminated with asbestos.