Kenosha Beer Gardens fire ruled accidental after investigation
KENOSHA, Wis. - A fire that caused significant damage to the Kenosha Beer Gardens earlier this month has been ruled accidental, according to a new investigation from the Kenosha Fire Department.
What we know:
The Kenosha Fire Department said crews were called to the bar and restaurant on 14th Avenue around 12:30 a.m. on April 12, after initial reports indicated the building was on fire and that people might be trapped inside. Crews later confirmed everyone had made it out safely, and no injuries were reported.
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When firefighters arrived, they found heavy flames coming from the two-story building. Crews initially attacked the fire from inside but later switched to a defensive strategy due to conditions inside the structure before bringing the fire under control hours later.
The fire caused significant damage to the popular Kenosha establishment, including the bar area and parts of the building’s structure.
Dig deeper:
After reviewing witness statements, 911 calls, video footage and fire debris, investigators determined the fire started on the rear deck pavilion. They say the cause was the improper disposal of smoking materials into a potted plant.
The fire department said there is no evidence the fire was intentionally set, and it has been classified as accidental.
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Fire officials are now reminding the public to properly dispose of smoking materials, warning that items like potting soil can retain heat and create conditions for smoldering and eventual ignition.
Kenosha Beer Gardens fire; significant damage to bar, restaurant
Kenosha investigators are working to determine the cause of a fire that caused significant damage to a building known as the Kenosha Beer Gardens.
The Source: The Kenosha Fire Department provided information.