Marion garage fire traced to welder problem

Authorities said a welder was to blame for a garage fire Tuesday evening in Marion.

No one was injured in the fire at 180 21st St., which was reported shortly before 8 p.m. Crews found smoke and flames when they arrived, and needed about 15 minutes to get the fire under control, authorities said.

The garage, owned by Richard Beltz, Sr., sustained moderate damage. Supplies and two vehicles inside also had some damage, officials said. A cost estimate had not been determined.

District Fire Chief Doug Wyman said a small explosion, believed to be from an aerosol can, knocked a window out of its frame.

"Structurally, I think the garage is in pretty good shape, but it's going to need some work done to it," Wyman said.

Wyman said Beltz used the garage as a workshop, and had been using the welder just before the fire. Investigators later confirmed the welder malfunctioned, sparking the fire.

"He said it didn't seem to be working quite right, so he stopped using it and went inside," Wyman said. "He was in the house for just a very short time when he heard the pop."