BRATTLEBORO — After responding to a structure fire at an abandoned building early Thursday morning, officials are investigating the cause, which appears to be human-related.
The Brattleboro Fire Department was dispatched to 45 Canal Street at approximately 5:04 a.m. on Nov. 7, where they found the former Sportsman’s Lounge and adjacent apartments fully engulfed in flames.
The property had been vacant for several years and was known to be frequented by unhoused individuals.
Fire Chief Howard indicated that there was a possibility of unknown victim(s) inside the structure.
The Department of Public Safety Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit was called in to conduct a thorough search and to assist in determining the fire’s origin and cause.
Despite the extensive damage hindering the investigation, no victims were found during the search, which included the use of an excavator.
Investigators have not yet concluded on the cause but have confirmed that the fire resulted from direct human involvement.
The Brattleboro Police Department, in collaboration with the Department of Public Safety Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit, continues to investigate.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Vermont Arson Tip Award Program at 800-32-ARSON.
The program offers a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to an arrest in the case, separate from the contributions of state and Brattleboro police departments.
