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Fire Destroys Winthrop Post Office and its Contents

WINTHROP, Maine - Officials say a fire swept through the post office in downtown Winthrop, destroying both the building and the pieces of mail that were inside.

Crews say the blaze began around 9 a.m. Tuesday. A clerk saw a ceiling tile fall and smoke began spreading through building.

Everyone safely evacuated, but fire officials say flames consumed the building within minutes.

Town Fire Chief Dan Brooks says faulty heating equipment in the ceiling may have started the fire. The cause remains under investigation.

The U.S. Postal Service says there is no timetable for resuming operations.

Officials are awaiting clearance to enter the building and determine the extent of any damage to mail and parcels.

Street delivery will resume Wednesday.