Cause of fire is undetermined by fire marshal
Staff reporter
The official cause of the Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church fire has been listed as "undetermined" by the state's fire marshal office, said Steve Garrett, Hillsboro city administrator.
"Unless other information is uncovered, that will be the official cause," Garrett added.
The fire, which occurred March 7, destroyed the sanctuary, Christian education wing, and office buildings on the church campus.
The site was released Thursday by Hillsboro Fire Chief Ben Steketee to the church and insurance company.
Workers toppled the two end walls of the sanctuary Thursday to stabilize what remained of the burned structure.
The large stone and brick walls had been unstable following the fire which prevented residents on the east side of the property from returning to their homes.
Once the walls were razed, residents were able to return to their homes on Thursday.
Church services were held Sunday at Hillsboro High School gymnasium. The gym and Tabor College buildings will be utilized by the church until plans are made for rebuilding.
Church officials met Tuesday evening with insurance representatives to discuss immediate concerns and rebuilding plans.
At press time, no decisions had been announced by Pastor Bruce Porter or church representatives.
