Fire that caused millions in damage to Friday Harbor businesses declared arson

Investigators declared the blaze that destroyed multiple businesses on April 7 in the town of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island an act of arson.

Ferries shuttle firefighters to San Juan Island to fight large fire in Friday Harbor

City officials said the four-alarm fire that caused millions in damage originated on the deck behind the commercial building housing Crystal Seas Kayaking.

Multiple agencies were called to battle the fire that lasted for hours. Washington state ferries transported firefighters and equipment from Orcas and Lopez islands to San Juan Island.

Sheriff’s office boats also moved crews, and staff from Washington State Ferries remained on the island to help deputies provide crowd control at the scene.

Historical landmarks dating back to the late 1800s were destroyed according to Kimberley Kimple of the San Juan County Fire Protection District #2.

No injuries were reported and there was no evidence that anyone was inside the buildings when the fire started, Kimple said.

Fire officials are continuing to assess the damage. The total loss is estimated to exceed $10 million.

Three GoFundMe pages have been set up for damaged businesses.

Although officials have ruled arson as the cause, their investigation continues and they said they plan to share more information as it becomes available.

The town is working with building owners to ensure they can reopen safely.

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