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Fire at former Magnolia Grill building ruled accidential

A Jan. 2 fire at the building that once housed the Magnolia Grill restaurant was ruled an accident.

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DURHAM, N.C. — A Jan. 2 fire at the building that once housed the Magnolia Grill restaurant was ruled an accident.

The fire was likely caused by the carelessness of a trespasser using the building's basement for shelter, authorities said.

Smoke poured from the roof when firefighters arrived at the vacant building at 1002 Ninth St. The fire was started near a chair in the basement, authorities said.

The exact cause of the fire was not determined. Arson is not suspected.

Neighbors told investigators people have been hanging around the building for weeks prior to the fire. The basement was unsecured when firefighters arrived.

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