HESSTON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fire Marshal has ruled Friday’s fire at Hesston College’s JD Charles Hall of Science and Arts to be accidental. However, damage from the fire that began in the space between the original wood ceiling and roof directly above a chemistry classroom has left the building unusable.
Hesston College President Mark Landes said in an email to faculty and staff Monday the structural integrity of the building was severely impacted, and college officials have been told the roof was damaged enough that it could collapse at any time. For that reason, nobody is permitted to enter Charles Hall, which also sustained substantial smoke damage.
There was also smoke damage to the adjacent Bonnie Sowers Nursing Center, and while there did not appear to be any structural damage, elevated carbon monoxide levels remain along with residue on surfaces, and access to that building has also been restricted.
Kauffmann Court, a resident hall west of Charles Hall, was evacuated as a precaution, but students were allowed back into it just before 8 PM Friday, four hours after fire was reported.
The campus community has pulled together to address urgent needs and ensure a successful last week of the spring semester. Faculty and staff affected by the closures have been relocated to alternate offices and computer labs on campus and replacement computers are being distributed as available. Final exams this week were moved to alternate locations which have been communicated to students.
Landes said many details remain to be determined as the college begins the process of insurance assessment and long-term recovery planning. In his email Landes said, “While this is a significant disruption, it has also been a powerful reminder of the strength and unity of our community,” adding the resilience and collaboration witnessed from students, faculty and staff over the weekend has been extraordinary.
In asking for continued prayers and patience in the days ahead, Landes concluded by saying, “But I have no doubt that we will face these next steps with the same care, creativity, and commitment to our mission that have long defined Hesston College.”
