CARLSBAD, N.M. (AP) — Federal investigators are now looking into the cause of a blaze that destroyed a hotel in Carlsbad that was months away from opening.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said Monday it sent a national response team to the southeastern New Mexico community.
The federal investigators were on scene Monday along with officials from the Carlsbad police and fire departments and the State Fire Marshal's Office.
Last week's fire destroyed a multimillion-dollar Quality Inn that was being built along one of Carlsbad's main streets. The flames were contained within hours but the building was a total loss.
AFT response teams typically help with more complex investigations. The teams are made up of special agents, explosive specialists, fire investigators and forensic mapping experts,