Up in flames

The Newton Perry Aquatic Center, located at the Ocala Campus, caught on fire Tuesday, Nov. 2.

At 9:03 p.m., an unidentified individual passing by saw smoke and notified the Ocala Fire Department. In less than a minute, the department arrived at the scene. A total of 16 firefighters from four fire stations were present.

The blaze started in the office area, spread to the front of the building and then to the ceiling, cracking concrete block walls.

The building is located directly next to the Olympic-size swimming pool. It contains locker rooms and serves as an office and common area with a refrigerator and microwave.

Although at this point it is still speculation, officials believe an extension cord to a microwave ignited the blaze.

"It's definitely ruled as an accidental fire. There are no signs or evidence of arson," said Capt. Edward Raulerson of Ocala Rescue in the Ocala Star-banner.

Campus officials believe this is the first fire in the history of CF.

The extent of the damage is still undetermined.

Dr. Joe Wallace, director of marketing and public relations, explained it is necessary to wait until the air quality is clear enough for architects and engineers to enter. Only then will a decision be made on whether the building should be reconstructed or torn down based on the destruction of the walls.

Although the pool itself did not suffer any damage, it will remain closed until further notice. The Central Florida Marlins Swim Club, a local group not affiliated with the college, and other groups, use the facility for practices, meets and recreation.