On Monday, December 5, 2005, the State Fire Marshal's Office was called to investigate the cause of a fire at "Chico's Produce", located at 12985 Missouri State Road 21 South, Desoto, Jefferson County, Missouri. The fire was discovered by a passerby and reported to authorities via the 911 phone system at approximately 7:36 p.m.

The building was a one story masonry and frame commercial structure. The business housed in the building was involved in reatail sales of seasonal goods.  Christmas fruit, trees, garland, wreaths, and candy were damaged during the fire's progression.

A hay bale wall had been built along the exterior of the structure to support standing Christmas trees. The hay bales were held in place by oak pallets. It was determined the fire originated in the hay bales and extended into the wood soffit of the building. The fire is estimated to have caused $50,000.00 in damages.

Several local fire departments assisted in the suppression of the fire, including the DeSoto City Fire Department, the DeSoto Rural Fire Department and the Hillsboro Fire Department.

State Fire Marshal Randy Cole said they are still investigating how the fire started and more information is vital to closing the case.

"If anyone has information concerning this fire please call the Missouri Arson Hotline at 1-800-392-7766 (1-800-39-ARSON)," Cole said. "A reward of up to $5,000.00 is offered to anyone who can provide information leading to an arrest in this matter."

Randy L. Cole,
Missouri State Fire Marshal

Randy.Cole@dfs.dps.mo.gov

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12/9/2005