SEATTLE --
The Seattle police Arson Bomb Squad and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting Fire Department investigators who are looking into what caused Monday's spectacular four-alarm fire that destroyed a vacant SoDo warehouse, firefighters said.
Engineers determined that it is safe for investigators to enter some parts of the building, but other parts are still too dangerous to go inside. Investigators are interviewing witnesses, taking photos and gathering information, the Fire Department said in a news release.
"Due to the tremendous amount of fire damage and the size of the building, the investigation is expected to take several days if not longer," the news release said.
Meanwhile, the firefighter injured in the blaze is recovering at Harborview Medical Center. The 37-year veteran is listed in stable condition with an ankle fracture suffered when he was hit by siding that fell onto him.
Overnight, firefighters put out hot spots from the fire at the old Sunny Jim Peanut Butter factory.
The flames were under control, but firefighters have been watching closely for hours and spraying water on any hot spots that flare up.
The former plant that was abandoned for years was flattened by the fire that broke out at about 1:50 p.m.
During Mondays fire, the flames were so huge, two lanes of Interstate 5, right next to the burning building, had to be closed while the fire raged.
Many people downwind of the fire were feeling the effects of the thick smoke.
Video from Chopper 7 captured a fireball exploding from the flames as firefighters battled the blaze.
Though it may be days before the cause of the fire is determined, neighbors are speculating about the cause. Some said transients would often camp in the building, which was owned by the city of Seattle.
Some in the neighborhood are wondering if a homeless person may have accidentally started the fire, or if it was intentionally set.
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