Cause of fire near downtown Marion still unknown

Investigators continue to search for the cause of the fire at a vacant rental house in Marion earlier this week, but do not consider it suspicious.

The fire early Monday morning at 957 13th St. caused heavy damage to the upper level of the house and the roof eventually collapsed. The first firefighters to arrive found flames coming from an upstairs apartment, and witnesses reported an explosion.

The intensity of the fire and safety concerns forced firefighters to mostly battle the blaze from the outside. No injuries were reported.

Marion District Fire Chief Doug Wyman said they think they have pinpointed where the fire started, but have not made an official ruling on the cause. The hope is to wrap up the investigation this week, he said.

“There was so much damage,” Wyman said. “We've been out there for a day and a half, sorting through the ashes to see if we can find anything.”

The house is owned by Richard Krusie, according to the Linn County assessor. No one was in either of the two apartments when the fire broke out, officials said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

• March 7 -

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

• March 7 - Fire breaks out at vacant Marion home