Whiting Paper Mill fire 'not caused by act of nature', investigators say


MENASHA, Wisconsin (From news reports) -- The fire that essentially destroyed the old Whiting Paper Mill in Menasha earlier this month was, "not caused by an act of nature," authorities said Tuesday, May 18.

In a statement posted to Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue's Facebook page, Menasha authorities said the investigation is still active and ongoing. They encourage anyone with information to contact Menasha Police or Winnebago County Crime Stoppers.

The exact cause of the fire has not yet been released.

The fire broke out at the mill during the evening of May 2. It caused widespread damage to the former mill, leaving the building unstable and causing concerns that it would fully collapse. A few days after the fire, crews began to demolish the building out of safety concerns.

The mill had been a part of the Menasha community for more than a century. The mayor of Menasha said the destruction of the building was a "great loss to Menasha history."

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