Arson ruled out in hotel investigation

Although the investigation is ongoing, arson has been ruled out as the cause of the fire which destroyed the Ryley Hotel, according to Beaver Emergency Services Commission Regional Fire Chief and Regional Director of Emergency Management, Cindy Conroy.

Chief Conroy said although a number of investigation details are being completed, such as compiling witness statements, the site has been handed back to the owner.

Residents of Ryley woke up to smoke and flames early Sunday, January 19 and within just minutes fire crews were on the scene.

Led by Chief Conroy, crews remained on site until about 8 p.m. by which time the fire had been extinguished and fencing had been installed to secure the site… For more see the Feb. 11/14 issue of the Viking Weekly Review