FD: Gilbert warehouse fire caused by discarded cigarette

GILBERT, AZ - Investigators have determined a massive fire that engulfed a Valley warehouse Monday was caused by a discarded cigarette.

Gilbert fire officials confirmed Tuesday afternoon that an improperly disposed of cigarette butt was responsible for sparking the blaze, which burned for several hours and sent thick smoke out over the East Valley.

SEE PHOTOS OF THE FIRE

Video from Air15 Monday evening showed areas of the blackened Farnsworth Wholesale building smoldering as crews began clean-up efforts.

The blaze sparked around 3 p.m. at the plumbing equipment and supply company near Baseline and McQueen.

An arson team responded to the scene Tuesday to investigate if the fire was intentionally set.

Jack Stapley, co-owner of the business, told ABC15 the building has been destroyed and estimates a total loss of $8 million.

According to Stapley, the flames were mostly burning plastic and water heaters before sparking several propane tanks used for the businesses' fork lifts.

Scott Keefer, one of 80 employed by the company, said the flames quickly spread and within seconds the whole warehouse yard was on fire.

No injuries were reported.