FORT KENT, Maine — The Maine state fire marshal’s office said Friday that an unattended candle led to a fire that destroyed a gas station and two connected apartments in Fort Kent.
Investigators determined that the fire started in one of two second-floor apartments attached to the business, caused by a candle left burning on a bedroom dresser, Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss said in a release.
Investigators ruled the fire accidental.
The fire occurred Wednesday at 11:22 a.m. at Mel’s Gas Station on Market Street. About three dozen emergency personnel from several departments were on the scene.
One person was in the building at the time, but no one was injured, Fort Kent Fire Chief Cole Pelletier said Wednesday.
The building was a total loss.
Fire investigators came to Fort Kent Thursday and interviewed several witnesses and the apartment occupants.
The fire displaced three people, who are now being assisted by the American Red Cross.
“The fire marshal’s office reminds the public that candles should never be left unattended and should always be extinguished before leaving a room or going to sleep,” Moss said.