DAMAGE IN APARTMENT FIRE PUT AT $50,000

Residents of 115 N. Fountain hauled out belongings Wednesday following a two-alarm fire at the apartment building Tuesday.

However, work to repair the damage is beginning today, and the building should be ready for tenants to return in 60 days.

According to Cape Girardeau Fire Chief Robert Ridgeway, the fire started in a trash can in an apartment on the top floor in the southeast end of the three-story structure.

"The third floor suffered pretty heavy fire and heat damage," Ridgeway said. "On the first and second floors it was much more superficial, some smoke and a little bit of water damage."

Ridgeway thinks the fire was accidental but said the investigation is continuing. However, he conceded that the exact cause "may never be determined."

Building owner Loy Welker estimated damage at $50,000.

Some 40 tenants lived in the building, formerly part of the Idan-Ha Hotel, prior to Tuesday's fire. None were injured, but all were left homeless. The Salvation Army lodged 15 adults and 10 children in a motel Tuesday and Wednesday night while others found their own accommodations. Several area agencies are helping the victims find more permanent housing.

"If they need extended lodging, we will help them in any way they can," said Capt. Robert Gauthier of the Salvation Army.

Welker doubts any of his current tenants will return because they will likely have found other apartments by the time the repairs are completed.

Although the building is currently not fit for habitation, the two businesses on the first floor were unaffected. Both A Different Drummer Tattoo Studio at 405 Broadway and Tee Time Golf Sales at 409 Broadway remained open for business Tuesday following the fire.