BINGHAM — A spark from a cutting torch started a quick-spreading fire Wednesday that damaged Jimmy’s Market on U.S. Route 201 and closed the only grocery store in town.

The torch was being used by a contractor working on an addition to the grocery store and the spark ignited foam insulation around 11 a.m., said Chief Deputy James Ross of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office.

“Deputy (Joe) Jackson and the Bingham Fire Department did an amazing job in their quick response in getting the fire quickly stopped and under control in what could have been a disastrous fire,” Ross said in an email.

There was minimal damage to the store, according to Bingham Assistant Fire Chief Pat Read, who said there were no injuries reported.

Even so, the store was evacuated and remained closed Wednesday afternoon, and it was not clear when it would reopen. Owner Todd West did not immediately return a call seeking comment Wednesday.

The store is independently owned, but sells Hannaford-brand products, according to the store’s website.

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Read said he was not sure whether the store had insurance or how much the damage would cost to repair.

On Wednesday afternoon the parking lot was blocked off and a fan was circulating air through the front doors of the store. Signs on the front door read, “Store closed due to fire.”

Ross credited a recent training Jackson had completed with the Office of the Maine State Fire Marshal related to fire investigation and analysis with helping to determine the cause of the fire. The training helps law enforcement officers assist in investigating “less suspicious fires in the area,” Ross said.

He said that Jackson also consulted with the fire marshal’s office at the scene and members of the Bingham Fire Department to determine the cause. The Solon Fire Department also responded to the fire.


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