November 02, 2024
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Investigators rule fire in Winterport accidental

WINTERPORT – A house fire Wednesday that left a family of six homeless has been ruled accidental by investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Based on an investigation Thursday that spanned several hours, fire officials determined that the fire began in a pantry at the back of Cindy Hogencamp’s residence at 709 Main St., according to Winterport Fire Chief Thomas Doe.

What remains unclear, however, was what started it, Doe said. State fire investigators said they believe the fire was started either by a faulty extension cord or a pantry light that it served, but because both were so badly damaged which one was to blame will never be known, Doe said.

Since the fire, the family has been the subject of an outpouring of community support.

Cash donation cans to support the family have been set out at all R.H. Foster stores, including the Winterport location, which also is accepting donations of clothing, furniture and household items. To make arrangements to drop off those items, call the store at 223-3906.

Donations to the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross should be sent to 33 Mildred Ave., Bangor, 04401. Credit card contributions can be made by calling the chapter at 941-2903.

Contributions also can be sent to the Cindy Hogencamp Family Fund, c/o Bangor Savings Bank, 15 Main Road North, Hampden 04444.

Correction: This article also ran on page B2 in the State edition on 10/18/2008.

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