WELLINGTON - Improper storage of combustible materials next to a hot water heater caused the Wellington Mercantile fire Sept. 13, said Nevada State Deputy Fire Investigators David Dini and Dennis Ely.
The water heater's pilot light appears to have ignited cardboard and cloth materials, investigators said. The blaze spread rapidly due to the age and the dryness of the wood.
The State Fire Marshal's office said local fire departments on the scene should be commended for an outstanding job of protecting adjacent structures and the surrounding area.
The building housed Magdalena's Mexican Restaurant and the Wellington Mercantile. The building was engulfed by the fire in 15 minutes and burned to the ground in about three hours.