NEWSLINE: FIRE DESTROYS AREA JUNIOR HIGH

CHARLESTON -- Fire Saturday destroyed the Charleston Junior High School, authorities said.

Charleston police said the fire broke out about 10:20 a.m. and firefighters from Charleston, East Prairie, Bertrand and Sikeston were at the scene until 7:45 p.m.

Police said the state fire marshal's office was asked to investigate and a fire marshal was expected to arrive today.

Lightning was reported in the area at about the time the fire was discovered, police said.

The building was a two-story brick that formerly served as the high school.

Friday was the last day of school.