Arson investigators probing fire that hit Koronadal market

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato—Arson investigators on Wednesday started looking into the debris left by a fire Tuesday night that razed half of the city’s public market.

Senior Inspector Jennelyn Te-elan, Koronadal City fire marshal, said that the origin of the fire in the middle of almost one-hectare public market had been identified. But she begged off to exactly pinpoint it to pave the way for arson investigators to continue their work.

She said the fire erupted at 8:49 p.m. and was declared under control at about 11 p.m.

Witnesses said the fire started in a stall that sells butane cylinders and other flammable items.

Other witnesses said several looters were seen taking advantage of the fire by hauling goods saved by establishment owners.

Cyrus Urbano, city administrator and disaster risk reduction and management council (CDRRMC) action officer, said the fire site remained cordoned off until arson investigators have finished their job. /idl