Arena Fire Near Kalispell Caused by Arson Says Flathead County Sheriff

A fire that broke out at the Majestic Valley Arena near Kalispell last Saturday night, January 3, appears to have been no accident.

"The Flathead County fire investigation did determine that the cause of the fire was arson," Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry said. "That investigation at least as to the origin of the fire and the manner of the fire is complete. It's now being investigated by the detective division of the sheriff's office. We've got some leads we're following up on, but it's still early in the investigation."

Firefighters were able to contain the blaze to an office by the nearly 66,000 square foot arena, however, a Rodeo and Team Roping Championship had to be canceled because of the fire. Curry says that the cause of the fire is known, but that it is not being revealed to the public yet due to the ongoing investigation.