BRIEF: Potentially dangerous conditions slow fire investigation at Butte Creek Mill

Dec. 28--EAGLE POINT -- Investigators have yet to dig thoroughly into the ruins of the Butte Creek Mill, destroyed in a predawn fire Christmas Day.

Jackson County Fire District 3 spokesperson Ashley Lara said the hazardous nature of sifting deep into the structure has slowed the investigation. She said local fire and insurance company investigators likely will do a joint inspection once such an operation is deemed safe.

The iconic 143-year-old water-powered mill on the banks of Butte Creek was the last of its kind west of the Mississippi River. Three agencies, five engines and 18 firefighters were called to the scene shortly after 4 a.m. on Christmas after they were contacted by an alarm company.

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