FRIDAY HARBOR, Wash. – The fire that tore through historic buildings in downtown Friday Harbor last week was arson.
ATF and local investigators have determined that the fire began on a deck behind the building housing Crystal Seas Kayaking.
No suspects have been identified and the investigation continues.
The fire that broke out in buildings on Spring Street early April 7th destroyed three buildings and damaged at least six.
There were six businesses in the totaled buildings including the kayak company, a tavern, wine bar, coffee shop, real estate agency and private offices.
The buildings date back to the 1880’s and damage is estimated at over $10 million.
GoFundMe pages have been created to raise funds to help rebuild the businesses damaged or destroyed by the Friday Harbor Fire.
New business Anchors Away SkyBar and 10-year-old mainstay Crows Nest Coffee have launched their own fundraisers.
The San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce has also organized a general fundraiser to help all affected businesses.
The sites have raised over $28,000 so far and hope to see more contributions.
To donate, go here.
Or visit the Skybar page and the Crows Nest page.