State Inspectors Close Case On Hole In The Wall Camp Fire

ASHFORD, CT — The exact area of origin for last month's fire at the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp was not determined by state fire inspectors, but authorities concluded that "there is no indication that the fire was intentionally set."

The Feb. 12 fire at the camp, which was founded by the late Westport actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, destroyed several structures, but no injuries were reported.

"The investigation included an examination of the fire scene and interviews with numerous witnesses," authorities said. "Due to the catastrophic damage caused by the fire, the exact area of fire origin could not be identified. It is the opinion of investigators that the fire started in one area, however, and quickly spread through the buildings that comprised the camp’s Main Street area and housed the wood working shop, the arts and crafts area, the camp store and the cooking zone."

The investigation was conducted by the Connecticut State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit, in conjunction with the Ashford Fire Marshal’s Office.

"Investigators were not able to identify the ignition source that caused the fire," authorities added. "It has been concluded that while the cause of the fire is Undetermined, there is no indication that the fire was intentionally set or has any criminal aspect associated. The case will be closed."

The camp, which was founded in the late-1980s, is dedicated to benefitting seriously ill children and their families. Following the fire, Newman's Own Foundation and the Travelers Championship have pledged large matching donations to help with rebuilding costs.