Arson suspected in ex-pub fire on Main St. Two-alarm blaze Saturday fought at vacant restaurant.

• Position: LOCAL NEWS

Byline: Scott J. Croteau

HOLDEN - Authorities are treating a Saturday night fire at a vacant restaurant on Main Street as arson, saying a flammable liquid was found at the site.

Fire Chief John Chandler III said firefighters went to 700 Main St. about 10 p.m. to find flames along the foundation at the back of the building. The building has been unoccupied for some time. It was most recently Shamrock's Pub & Eatery, and for many years it was home of Vinny's Restaurant.

The state fire marshal's office was called to the scene, and a trained dog detected accelerant in the area, according to the chief. It appeared the liquid was spread on the outside of the back of the building, and some could have leaked inside through holes, Chief Chandler said. "We do think it is a suspicious fire."

Most of the fire was in the basement, which was used for storage. Heat and smoke caused extensive damage to the restaurant level of the building, which has been closed since March, Chief Chandler said. The utilities were still on in the building and, according to the chief, the owners are trying to lease the building.

It took about 20 minutes to extinguish the two-alarm fire. "It was knocked down pretty quick," the chief said.

Nearly three dozen Holden firefighters were assisted by...