Legislative Hall Closed as Damage After Fire is Assessed

Officials are assessing the damage caused by a fire in Legislative Hall, and the building remains closed after a smoky fire forced its evacuation.

The Dover fire marshal says the blaze, which broke out Wednesday afternoon, was accidental and caused when an exhaust pipe in the attic ignited combustibles. A police officer and a firefighter were treated for smoke inhalation after the fire.

State officials are assessing the damage and estimating what it will cost to repair the damage to the 1933 building. It is unclear when the building can be occupied. Meetings are being held in the nearby Tatnall Office Building while Legislative Hall remains closed.

Lawmakers are not in session now; the current General Assembly will open its second session in January.