MASON CITY – Mason City police and the fire department are investigating a suspicious fire that took place on the evening of December 15.
Police say the fire was lit shortly after 9 PM in the 600 block of 6th Street SW. An investigation revealed that a cutting torch had been used in an attempt to cut a metal plate that was securing a door to gain access to the building a commit a burglary. The torch caused a fire that led to the evacuation of the residents who live above the vacant business that was the target of the burglary attempt.
No one was injured on the fire, but four residents were displaced and unable to return to their homes. At least one adjacent business said it would have to close temporarily due to the fire, also.
Police are continuing to investigate the incident.
