An investigation continues at the site of a fire that destroyed part of the town square in Princeton, Missouri  earlier this week.  In a news release, Mike O’Connell of the Missouri Department of Public Safety said there is still a significant hazard of collapse, which is complicating matters for the fire investigators.

“The investigation is continuing at this time. The area of origin was determined to be in Jeff’s Place bar. There is still a significant collapse hazard at the building making it unsafe for investigators to work in at this time. For the safety of the public, the street and entire block have been roped off as well as the side of the Mercer County Courthouse across the street.”

O’Connell says that when the rest of the structure is knocked down, and safety is improved, the investigator will return to the scene to observe any evidence of the fire cause.

The blaze destroyed at least two buildings caused extensive damage to a third.   The buildings housing Jeff’s Place bar, the Mercer County Senior Center and A Better Image Salon Spa & Fitness were destroyed.

Smoke from the fire forced election officials to move one the city’s polling places to the courthouse for Tuesday’s election. There was a water main break on the Princeton Square, but water service was left on to fight the fire.  (Click here for more)