The origin of a fire that gutted Ambition Brewing in Wilton on Monday afternoon has been determined accidental and caused by ongoing renovation work.
The fire began beneath the rear section of the building at 295 Main St. where old flooring was being cut and removed, according to a release from the Office of State Fire Marshal.
The fire was discovered about 3 p.m. by the property owner after old flooring had been cut and was in the process of being removed.
The business was founded by Jeff Chaisson and Josh Michaud in 2018.
The underside of the building was partially open to the elements, allowing leaves and other organic debris to accumulate beneath the structure over time. The material had become dry and readily combustible and most likely ignited during the flooring removal process, according to investigators.
Firefighters from multiple departments were able to contain the fire to one of the two buildings occupied by the business. The second building received smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported.
“Today has been a tough day for Ambition Brewing,” according to a post on the pub’s Facebook page. “We experienced a major fire, and while we’re still taking it all in, the most important thing is that everyone is safe.”
The post continued: “To the Wilton Fire & Rescue, Jay, Farmington, Rumford, Temple, and East Dixfield fire departments, Wilton Police, emergency medical services, and the investigators at Office of State Fire Marshal: ‘thank you for your tireless work, dedication, and care. We are deeply grateful for everything you’ve done today.'”
The owners couldn’t be immediately reached for comment Tuesday.
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