A fire caused a lot of destruction in Downtown Arcata Friday afternoon. Almost an entire block of buildings was on fire just off the Arcata Plaza at the center of town. At least seven businesses were destroyed in the inferno, including a game store, a bookstore, an ace hardware, a candy shop, an art gallery and other businesses. Fire also destroyed the apartments located in their upper floors. Arcata Fire District estimates the damage at around $18 Million. Investigators have been trying to find a cause.
-Steve Gibson