Firefighters fight the blaze that engulfed The Royal back on Sept. 16. (CHAT File Photo)

By Gates Guarin

Royal fire cause deemed ‘accidental’ in nature

Nov 8, 2022 | 4:29 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services have provided an update into the cause of the fire which engulfed the Royal back on Sept. 16.

Private insurance, investigators and Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services have completed their investigation into the fire, which was awaiting the results of forensic evidence testing by a third-party organization.

Grayson Smith, fire prevention officer with fire and emergency services, says results from forensic evidence suggest the fire was started accidentally.

READ MORE: Investigators waiting on forensic testing in probe of Royal fire

Smith says the probable cause of the fire was from “resistive heating” inside an electrical receptacle, or outlet. A buildup of heat occurred within the outlet, which led to the ignition of combustible material surrounding the immediate area. The fire then quickly spread through the interior of the walls and ceiling.

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Smith adds the age of the building, coupled with the lack of fire stopping material led to the blaze spreading much faster, causing the extensive damage.

There is still no word about the cause of a second fire which occurred at the site in early October.