BINGHAM — A spark from a cutting torch was to blame for a quick-spreading fire Wednesday that damaged Jimmy’s Market on U.S. Route 201, closing the only grocery store in town, according to the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office.
The torch was being used by a contractor working on an addition to the grocery store. The spark ignited foam insulation and the fire spread around 11 a.m. Wednesday, said Chief Deputy James Ross, of the sheriff’s office.
“Deputy (Joe) Jackson and the Bingham Fire Department did an amazing job in their quick response in getting the fire quickly stopped and under control in what could have been a disastrous fire,” Ross said in an email.
The store sustained minimal damage, according to Bingham Assistant Fire Chief Pat Read, who also said no injuries were reported.
Even so, the store was evacuated and remained closed Wednesday afternoon, and it was not clear when it would re-open. Owner Todd West did not immediately return a call seeking comment Wednesday.
The store is independently owned but sells Hannaford brand products, according to the store’s website.
Read said he was not sure whether the store was insured or how much the damage would cost to repair.
On Wednesday afternoon the parking lot was blocked off and a fan was circulating air through the front doors of the store. Signs on the front door read, “Store closed due to fire.”
Ross credited recent training Jackson had completed with the Office of the Maine State Fire Marshal related to fire investigation and analysis with helping to determine the cause of the fire. The training helps law enforcement officers assist in investigating “less suspicious fire in the area,” Ross said.
He said Jackson also consulted with the fire marshal’s office at the scene and members of the Bingham Fire Department to determine the cause. The Solon Fire Department also responded to the fire.
Rachel Ohm — 612-2368
Twitter: @rachel_ohm
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