TCI Fire Ruled an Accident

Investigators say the fire that destroyed a transformer recycling plant in eastern New York was an accident and they've closed a criminal investigation. 

State police say they found no sign the blaze at TCI of New York was set. They said yesterday fire investigators are still working to determine the cause.

The Aug. 1 fire at the West Ghent facility was fueled by diesel, propane and mineral oil and raised worries about PCBs or other dangerous materials in the plumes of smoke. About 20,000 people near the Columbia County plant were told to stay indoors the next day.

Subsequent testing determined there was no health threat. The Times Union reports that residents living near the facility have asked for more extensive testing and do not want the facility rebuilt. TCI of New York LLC will be billed for the costs of sampling and testing around the facility.

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press