Cause of downtown fire undetermined

HOUGHTON — The cause of a major fire in downtown Houghton late last month remains undetermined.

The City of Houghton Fire Department reports the blaze at 511 Shelden Avenue started outside, and officials believe it began in the rear of the building. No criminal activity is suspected at this time.

The fire, which began on the evening of July 29th, was put out thanks to the combined efforts of numerous volunteer firefighters from around the area. Officials from both the Fire Department and the Houghton Police Department are extending thanks to those who assisted in getting occupants out safely and the fire contained before it caused further destruction. There were no injuries reported in the incident.

A benefit spaghetti dinner will be held for victims of the fire at the Shelden Grill on Tuesday, August 23rd, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person.