Fire Marshal says Matunuck Oyster Bar fire most likely accidental

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal said that a preliminary investigation into the fire at Matunuck Oyster Bar pointed towards it being accidental.

The fire marshal said that “several possible causes” had been ruled out, including commercial cooking equipment being a “direct cause.”

“Steps have been taken to preserve the security and integrity of the fire scene so that investigators can continue to examine the scene safely,” the fire marshal’s office said. “Extensive mitigation measures have also been taken to prevent any contamination to nearby inland waterways.”

The popular restaurant caught fire early in the morning on May 20.