Authorities have arrested a woman in connection with a fire that severely damaged a popular deli in Portland, Oregon earlier this week.
The Portland Fire Bureau said Catherine E. Stough, 56, was taken into custody following the early morning blaze Tuesday at Elephants Delicatessen on Northwest 22nd Avenue.
Officials said Stough was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on suspicion of reckless burning and criminal mischief.
Fire started while using open flame
Investigators said the fire began when Stough was using a torch with an open flame to look through garbage containers near the deli. During that process, flammable material inside one of the bins caught fire.
Authorities described the incident as a “human-caused” fire, which eventually spread from the trash area to the building’s roof and interior, causing extensive damage.
Business uncertain about reopening timeline
Martin McClanan, CEO of Elephants Delicatessen, said the extent of the damage makes it unclear when the restaurant will be able to reopen.
He added that the cost and timeline for repairs have not yet been determined.
The investigation into the fire remains ongoing.
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