Officials give update on fire at Pocatello high school

2:00 p.m. update: Pocatello Police Department and Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 release update on Highland High School fire

Ryan O'Hearn Chief Pocatello Police Department says the investigation is a joint effort between Pocatello Fire Department, Pocatello Police Department, State Fire Marshall and Idaho Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms.

An investigation finds the fire started on the north wall of the stage inside of the school's cafeteria. The cause is determined to be electrical in nature due to faulty equipment. The fire is ruled as accidental in nature.

The fire alarm was initiated by a first responder at the scene.

Dr. Howell, Superintendent of Schools for the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 says it will take a year to two until rebuilding will happen. A security fence is up, and people are asked to stay away. The D wing is destroyed, only the welding shop is salvageable.

Additionally information includes: Learning resumes with remote learning on Tuesday, Chromebook devices are available for pickup at the district office on Monday and up to 90% of school memorabilia was saved by firefighters

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On Monday, Leaders from the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District and the Pocatello Fire Department will give an update on Friday's fire at Highland High School.

The press conference is happening at 10 a.m. at the district office.

The fire broke out in the school's D-wing early Friday morning. Preliminary reports indicated the B, Upper B and C wings were not damaged by fire. However, there was significant water on the floor surface. No injuries were reported.

  • Monday, April 24: School will be canceled for Highland High School.
  • Tuesday, April 25 through Friday, April 28: Classes for Highland High School will be held virtually for all grades 9-12.

This is a developing news story. CBS2 will provide an update on the fire after Monday's press conference.

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