Arson investigators from the Monterey and San Benito County Arson Task Force continue to investigate the cuase of Saturday's fire on Washington Street in San Juan Bautista. The focus of the investigation seems to be in the rear of the building adjoining the property on which the rental home owned by Arthur Medina is located. Accounts have the fire originating in that area, and then quickly spreading.
The McCandless family, owners of the Plaza Market building, which had once housed the Lavagnino's Store and the precursor to the Nob Hill Markets, surveyed the damage on Monday and were working through their property management company to support the tenants which operate in the other rentals in their buildings.
Mr. McCandless expressed the strong feelings he and his wife have for historic buildings, noting that stored in the warehouses that burned were parts of an old mansion in San Francisco which is undergoing restoration, along with old family possessions. He expressed his affection for the Plaza Market building and appreciation of it's history.