EBS STAFF
After a seven-day investigation, the Big Sky Fire Department ruled that the cause of the Sept. 26 One&Only hotel fire was accidental, and indicated that welding operations earlier that day started the blaze.
According to an Oct. 4 BSFD press release, the fire department believes that welding operations earlier that day on a metal screen on one of the building’s balconies caused the fire. The welding work was done several hours before the fire on Sept. 26 according to the release.
The week-long investigation into the fire that caused an estimated $7.5 million in damages—and $48.5 million in property saved by first responders—involved multiple agencies.
“The Big Sky Fire Department would like to thank the other agency’s investigators for assisting in this process and the developers and contractors for their full cooperation and patience during the investigation,” the release stated.
The BSFD recommended a fire watch for hot work operations like welding and cutting. “Please always ensure you have a fire watch in place, clear the work area of combustible items, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby,” the release stated.
