Campus Connection

Anyone with info should call 608-785-5000

A hotline has been set up to help search for answers about the cause of the Jan. 29 fire in Drake Hall. The early-morning fire forced 271 students out of their rooms for the rest of the semester. Craig Snyder, division chief of Fire Inspection for the La Crosse Fire Department, says mechanical and electrical problems have been ruled out as the cause of the fire. “This has lead us to human involvement,” says Snyder. “It could be accidental or it could be intentional.” University Police Chief Scott Rohde says university officers have worked well with the La Crosse Fire Department in the investigation. University officers have interviewed more than 200 people, most of them Drake residents, about the fire. Most were interviewed before they re-entered the building to pick up personal belongings. Rohde says some students will be interviewed a second time while checking and cross-checking of fire reports continues. “The students we’ve interviewed have been extremely forthcoming,” he says. “They too, want to come to a conclusion of what happened.” Rohde says it’s important for a thorough investigation to take place. “We don’t want to jump to conclusions about the cause of the fire,” explains Rohde. “We believe someone has some knowledge that can help us determine the cause.” That’s why the university has set up a 24-hour hotline. Anyone with information about the fire is encouraged to call 608-785-5000. Calls will be directed to a confidential voicemail that will be monitored by detectives. An up to $2,000 reward will be given to a person providing credible information leading to the cause of the fire. “It is an open case,” says Rohde. “We’re expecting this tip-line to be beneficial.” Meanwhile, Director of Residence Life Nick Nicklaus says all students moved their possessions out of the hall by early Sunday evening and all students have been relocated. “I’m pleased to report all students have been taken care of,” he says. “Students, in general, are doing very well. That’s a testament to our fine students, the faculty and community.” Nicklaus says he continues to hear from colleagues nationwide offering support and encouragement. “We continue to get goodwill,” he says.