Welding blamed for Ephrata fire

Damage estimated at $1 million

EPHRATA — A regional fire investigation task force determined welding debris ignited last week's blaze at Renaissance Technology, authorities reported today.

The Sept. 18 blaze destroyed the commercial building, located at 1732 Basin St. S.W. No injuries were reported due to the fire. Initial damage estimates reached $1 million.

Ephrata Fire Chief Jeremy Burns said the blaze was accidental, the result of errant sparks or slag from welding done by employees. It started in the northeast corner of the building.

The task force reviewed photographs and video footage of the fire, including some captured by citizens, Burns said.

Task force investigators — from Grant, Chelan, Douglas and Okanogan counties — also considered employee statements and evidence collected at the scene before reaching a conclusion, Burns said.

Sixty-five firefighters from Ephrata and four Grant County fire districts battled the spectacular blaze. It lasted more than four hours, with fireballs exploding periodically up to 100 feet in the sky.