Investigators Determine Cause of Binghamton House Fire

Authorities have concluded their investigation into a fire on Binghamton's West Side that left five people homeless.

Last Wednesday's blaze at 22 Clarke Street has been ruled accidental. Captain Tim O'Neill, a fire investigator, said it appeared to be electrical in nature.

O'Neill said the fire originated in the basement of the two-story building. He said it probably was caused by overloaded wiring.

No injuries were reported in the late afternoon fire. The American Red Cross was called to the scene to assist two men and a woman who were forced from the apartment house by the blaze.

The fire, which was declared under control after about 30 minutes, caused moderate damage to the building.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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