The North Perth Fire Department was unable to determine a cause for the blaze that destroyed the former Red Maple Hotel in Monkton.
North Perth Fire Chief Janny Pape reported crews from six fire stations were called to the scene Monday. Fortunately the building was not occupied at the time.
Pape said all three North Perth Fire stations responded to the fire at 221 Winstanley Street Monkton Monday at approximately 11 a.m. to find heavy smoke billowing from the structure. Crews from West Perth, Perth East, and Huron East assisted on scene, while a crew and pumper from Minto provided standby coverage at the Listowel station.
Heavy equipment was brought in to assist with fire extinguishment. The building was demolished after it was determined the structure was a total loss. North Perth Fire was unable to provide a damage cost estimate.
Crews from North Perth’s Monkton station remained on fire watch Monday night, and released the scene Tuesday.