The cause of a fatal fire that destroyed a local group-care home in Ark City last week has been ruled undetermined by state fire investigators.
Jill Bronaugh, public information officer for the Office of the State Fire Marshal, said the fire at 705 N. Sixth originated in the attic area of the structure. Foul play has been ruled out, but an official cause will remain undetermined.
There are “several accidental causes that couldn’t be ruled out,” she said by phone from Topeka as she reviewed a report. At this point, the Kansas fire marshal’s office investigation into a cause is complete.
“Unless there were questions that come up later,” Bronaugh said. “That would conclude our investigation.”
32-year-old Andrew Goodnight died, likely from smoke inhalation, as a result of the large fire June 14. Goodnight was a resident of the home, which is owned and operated by Easterseals Capper Foundation. Three other residents and two staff were able to escape.
Goodnight was removed from the home by rescue personnel. He was not breathing at the scene and efforts to resuscitate him were not successful.
The residential area of the facility had a sprinkler and alarm system, but the attic did not have sprinklers. The home is a total loss.
