STURGIS, South Dakota — State and federal authorities investigating
the cause of a fire that destroyed a popular South Dakota biker bar say
the blaze was accidental.
Officials said Monday that investigators can say
"conclusively" that the fire at Full Throttle Saloon in Sturgis started
in the main part of the bar and was an accident.
The loss is estimated at $10 million.
A team from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms
and Explosives started investigating the scene of the Sept. 8 fire last
week along with state and local officials.
Special Agent in Charge James Modzelewski says
authorities examined artifacts from the scene and conducted interviews
to help determine the fire's cause.
The bar had been the subject of a reality television series. Its amenities include zip lines, musical stages and rental cabins. RELATED - Full Throttle Saloon Total Loss After Fire