Fire that destroyed Richmond automotive shop ruled accidental

Published: Sep. 8, 2026 at 12:55 PM EDT|Updated: Sep. 8, 2026 at 6:49 PM EDT

RICHMOND, Maine (WABI) - A fire that destroyed an automotive shop in Richmond has been ruled accidental.

The fire happened at A&W Auto Sales and Service on Brunswick Road around 12 p.m. Monday.

Investigators with the Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the fire started inside the garage. Officials said somebody was welding on a vehicle when it caught fire.

The fire spread throughout the building and other vehicles in the yard.

One employee had a minor burn but was not taken to the hospital, authorities said.