June 6, 2009

A boy playing with fireworks is said to be behind what turned into a massive fire that levelled three buildings.

It happened just after 2:30 pm Friday in downtown Emmett, a town north of St. Marys in Pottawatomie County.

An investigator with the State Fire Marshall's Office said Friday night that a 13-year old boy was trying to light a firework, but flammable liquids were too close to the flame. He says they caught fire, the flames spread and quickly got out of control, spreading through a residential building, a warehouse and a bar.

Chris Trudo with Pottawatomie Co. Emergency Management says one family living in the residential building is homeless and lost some pets, and the bar owners lost their business, so it would have an impact on such a small community.

Fire crews from Saint Marys, Onaga, Emmett and Havensville worked together to battle the flames. while also battling hot weather. Trudo says the Red Cross helped with relief, and the crews made sure to stay hydrated and take breaks.

All three buildings are a total loss.

The case will be forwarded to the County Attorney, but investigators say it doesn't appear to be a criminal act.