ATF joins investigation of Cedar Rapids bar fire

Investigators have not officially determined the cause of an explosion that destroyed part of a Cedar Rapids bar 10 days ago.

Workers were moving forward with demolition and clean-up at Sixth Gear Bar and Grill, 4617 J St. SW, on Thursday morning. The explosion on the evening of April 10 shook the ground, woke residents in the neighborhood and scattered debris in a 200-yard radius, officials said.

The bar was not open that day, and no one was hurt.

Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting with the investigation, according to Greg Buelow, spokesman for the Cedar Rapids Fire Department. Buelow said the cause may not be known for an extended period of time, while authorities await test results on evidence.

Officials said the explosion happened in the back half of the single-story structure, where the kitchen, coolers, a mechanical room and an office are located.

The bar is owned by Scott Reilly and Randy Olson, both of Cedar Rapids.