SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. — A fire was reported in a construction area near Anakeesta on May 24, according to a spokesperson with the park. City officials said no injuries were reported.
Austin Martin, the spokesperson for Anakeesta, said the fire broke out in an area that was not accessible to the public. According to city officials, the fire was extinguished shortly after crews arrived.
They said that the fire was in a 12' by 12' structure that was "fully involved." They also said that the cause of the fire was under investigation.
On May 31, they said the fire was ruled accidental and was construction-related. They said it took place in an area of the part still under constriction, which was set to become the new BirdVenture area. The fire was contained to the "owl house" portion of BirdVenture.
Martin said that the Gatlinburg Police Department and the Gatlinburg Fire Department responded to calls about the fire. He also said Anakeesta would continue to welcome guests on Thursday, May 25.
"Upon investigation, Gatlinburg Fire Department officials have ruled the fire an accidental 'spontaneous combustion' linked to recent independent contractor work," Anakeesta said ina release.