Saukville Fire Case Closed With No Official Cause Released

Though no official cause for the January fire in the new Saukville Humane Society was released, the investigation into the case has been closed, according to the case report on the fire from the Wisconsin Department of Justice's Division of Criminal Investigation. 

The finding was "that the fire originated above the ceiling level of the room containing the cremation furnace," the report said. "The fire originated in the area surrounding the furnace stack. The cause of the fire is undetermined."

Modifications were set to be made in the area surrounding the furnace stack the day after the fire broke out in the crematorium area, according to the report.

Shortly before the fire, contractors had made necessary changes to the furnace area in order to meet clearance specifications, the report said. Pieces of board surrounding the furnace stack were trimmed to create an 11-inch clearance space in all directions.

In making the modifications, a 2-inch-by-6-inch piece of fascia board was left bare, awaiting replacement with an aluminum covering, the report said. The covering was scheduled to be added the day after the fire.

Though the state has closed the case, the Ozaukee County Humane Society isstill in the process of determining the extent of the damage.

"Our insurance company has not concluded their investigation fully, so we do not have an estimate on the repairs," Angela Speed, director of development and community relations for the society, said in an e-mail.

The society is in the process of moving from its existing facility in Grafton to its , and the fire will not delay its opening.

The $6 million eco-friendly shelter will include an adoption center, a veterinary clinic and classroom space. The shelter is set to open on March 26.