WBRZ - Baton Rouge

MONROE- Monroe Fire Department chief investigator David Hill says last week's fire at the University of Louisiana at Monroe's George T. Walker Hall was likely caused by an "energized" stovetop.

In a statement released Monday, Hill said the fire originated in the northeast corner of Room I-97.

Hill said damage reviewed in this area is consistent with the energized stove top igniting common combustibles that were stored nearby.

The News-Star reports no one was injured in the two-alarm fire that began in a first floor custodial closet about 10:06 a.m. June 12, but ULM officials have scrambled to find temporary space for offices and classrooms.

Walker Hall is expected to remain closed until at least early next year as a result of the damage.